The WNBA’s 2025 broadcast schedule recently caught the attention of fans, especially with the heavy emphasis on the Indiana Fever and their star player, Caitlin Clark. The Fever are slated to appear in a significant number of nationally televised games, including a prime-time matchup against the Chicago Sky on May 17. In total, the Fever are set to feature in 40 games across CBS, ABC/ESPN, and Ion. This has led to some excitement, as the league seeks to capitalize on Clark’s rising star power. However, not everyone is pleased with the current broadcast strategy, particularly Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier.
During a guest appearance on ESPN’s “First Take,” Collier voiced her concerns about the WNBA’s focus on the Fever at the expense of other teams. While acknowledging the allure of Caitlin Clark as a star, Collier suggested that the league should also prioritize showcasing other deserving teams, including recent champions. Collier pointed out that the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty, led by stars Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, have just 32 nationally televised games in contrast to the Fever’s extensive coverage. Similarly, the Las Vegas Aces, who won back-to-back titles and feature reigning MVP A’ja Wilson, only have 33 games scheduled for national broadcast.
Collier’s frustration stems from the apparent imbalance in the league’s broadcast priorities. She expressed her belief that while Clark’s exposure is important, it should not come at the cost of diminishing the visibility of other top-tier teams. “It’s not about taking games away from Indiana or Caitlin,” Collier explained. “But I do think the level of TV games for other teams should be raised.” She emphasized that the league’s focus on one team should not come at the expense of others, suggesting that the championship teams, in particular, deserve greater recognition.
Despite this criticism, Collier was careful to clarify that her issue wasn’t with Caitlin Clark herself, but with the WNBA’s strategy. She acknowledged Clark’s immense talent and the importance of giving her and the Fever ample exposure. However, she also stressed that the league should work to raise the profile of other teams and players as well. “Caitlin is a star, and people want to see her,” Collier remarked, highlighting the need for the WNBA to promote a broader range of talent.
In the end, Collier’s comments reflect a desire for more balanced coverage in the WNBA. As the league grows in popularity, it will be crucial to find a way to showcase its star players while also giving the spotlight to the league’s champions and other top teams. The 2025 season promises to be a thrilling one, and it will be interesting to see how the league adjusts its broadcast approach to accommodate both emerging and established stars.
