Caitlin Clark may have led all players in fan votes for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game. But her low ranking among fellow players has reignited a storm of controversy. And brought Charles Barkley’s fiery words back into the spotlight.
Despite receiving over 1.3 million fan votes and earning a team captain spot, Clark placed just ninth among guards in the player voting. She trailed even her own Indiana Fever teammate Kelsey Mitchell, and was leapfrogged by Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers, who hasn’t yet played a WNBA game.
“Y’all Petty, Girls” – Barkley’s Take Gains New Life
The voting snub has prompted a wave of renewed attention to Barkley’s comments from May 2024, when he accused WNBA players of being “petty” toward Clark.
“Y’all should be thanking that girl for getting y’all private charters, all the money and visibility she brings into the WNBA,” Barkley said. “Don’t be petty like dudes. What she’s accomplished—give her her flowers!”
Barkley’s viral rant came after LeBron James also publicly defended Clark. Crediting her for the W’s recent surge in media coverage and financial backing. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) are now circulating clips of Barkley’s take again, arguing that Clark’s lukewarm reception from players is a “bad look” for the league.
Read More: 20 Reasons Caitlin Clark’s Real Rivalry Is With Paige Bueckers
A Star Dividing the League?
Clark, who has already dealt with injuries and criticism in her debut season, now faces another twist in her journey. The All-Star Game will be held July 19 at her home court in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. But the player vote suggests she may still have more to prove to her peers.
Whether Barkley’s message gets through is anyone’s guess. But one thing is clear. Caitlin Clark’s presence continues to dominate the WNBA’s headlines on and off the court.
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