WNBA 30th-Anniversary Poster Omits Caitlin Clark, Drawing Wide Criticism

Overview

• The WNBA released a 30th-season commemorative poster that does not include Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, a move fans noticed and objected to online.
• Commentators such as Colin Cowherd publicly criticized the omission as a marketing mistake that fails to leverage Clark’s demonstrated draw for attendance and TV ratings.
• Analysts and broadcasters suggested a possible licensing reason for Clark’s absence, saying some partners may not hold rights to use her likeness, but that explanation has not been confirmed by the league.
• Observers noted the poster appears to show only 20 players and leaves out many longtime WNBA stars as well, which complicates narratives that the exclusion targeted Clark alone.
• The WNBA has not explained how players were chosen for the artwork, leaving open questions about the league’s selection criteria and the broader balance between honoring history and promoting current stars.