Podcast Summary: "Covino & Rich - Caitlin Clark Backlash"

Introduction

In the June 28, 2025 episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by Covino and Rich from Fox Sports Radio, the conversation delves deep into the ongoing backlash against WNBA star Caitlin Clark. While the episode starts with general banter about the weekend and sports, it soon pivots to a critical analysis of the dynamics surrounding Clark's prominence in the league.

Sports Fan Participation Debate

Before addressing the main topic, Covino and Rich engage in a lively debate about whether avid sports fans actively participate in sports themselves. Covino argues that many fans do engage in recreational sports as a form of exercise and personal joy. He states, "A lot of people do because that's their exercise, that's their joy" ([05:17]). Conversely, Iowa Sam expresses surprise that despite deep involvement in sports analysis, many fans might not play sports actively: "I'm just saying if you're a sports fan so much... I'm just shocked that a lot of people don't actually play sports" ([06:00]).

This discussion underscores the hosts' belief in the multifaceted relationship fans have with sports, balancing passive viewership with active participation.

The Main Topic: Caitlin Clark and WNBA Backlash

Overview

The heart of the episode centers on Sophie Cunningham's comments regarding Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever's struggles. Cunningham mentioned, "We're circled on everyone's schedule. No one likes us" ([17:24]). This statement has sparked widespread discussion about the negative sentiments within the WNBA towards Clark and her team.

Reasons for Backlash

Covino and Rich dissect the possible reasons behind the Fever being "circled" on schedules and the apparent dislike from other teams. Covino suggests, "If you're reaching for greatness and you're achieving the way Caitlin Clark is, it just screams of envy" ([18:53]). They explore the idea that Clark's exceptional performance places her and the Fever in the spotlight, making them a target for other teams striving to prove themselves against the best.

Rich adds depth to this perspective by highlighting the dual nature of competition and jealousy: "It's a combination of those things. There is a jealousy... But also there's a big layer of... it's an attention test" ([21:23]).

Impact on the League

The hosts discuss how Clark's prominence can be a double-edged sword for the WNBA. On one hand, her performance draws attention and elevates the league's profile. On the other, it breeds resentment and increased competition, as teams schedule difficult matchups against her to gain visibility. Covino emphasizes, "Whether you like it or not, they're the ones they're trying to beat" ([25:00]).

They also touch upon the broader implications for female athletes in predominantly male-dominated sports circuits. A caller aptly summarizes, "There's so few spots for women to be praised in any circuit that's dominated by men... it's NOT a women thing, it's a people thing" ([31:39]).

Comparative Analysis

Drawing parallels to other sports figures, the hosts compare Clark's situation to that of Michael Jordan in his early days—where exceptional talent draws both admiration and intense rivalry. Covino remarks, "To be the player on the court with the target on your back because you're the champ" ([25:00]), highlighting how being the best can make one a focal point of competition and scrutiny.

Conclusion

Covino and Rich conclude that while Caitlin Clark's success brings challenges, it also propels the WNBA into greater prominence. They advocate embracing the attention and using it as a catalyst for the league's growth, despite the internal rivalries it may foster. Covino aptly summarizes, "Whatever lights your fire, man. Whatever gets you fired up and motivated" ([29:19]).

The episode wraps up with brief mentions of other sports news, maintaining the engaging and analytical tone that listeners have come to expect from The Herd with Colin Cowherd.

Notable Quotes:

• Covino on sports participation: “A lot of people do because that’s their exercise, that’s their joy” ([05:17]).
• Iowa Sam on sports fans playing sports: “I’m just saying if you’re a sports fan so much... I’m just shocked that a lot of people don’t actually play sports” ([06:00]).
• Covino on envy towards Clark: “If you’re reaching for greatness and you’re achieving the way Caitlin Clark is, it just screams of envy” ([18:53]).
• Rich on the nature of competition: “It’s a combination of those things. There is a jealousy... But also there’s a big layer of... it’s an attention test” ([21:23]).
• Covino on being the target: “Whether you like it or not, they’re the ones they’re trying to beat” ([25:00]).
• Caller on women's support dynamics: “There’s so few spots for women to be praised in any circuit that’s dominated by men... it’s NOT a women thing, it’s a people thing” ([31:39]).
• Covino on embracing attention: “Whatever lights your fire, man. Whatever gets you fired up and motivated” ([29:19]).

This detailed exploration provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the discussions surrounding Caitlin Clark's impact on the WNBA, capturing the essence of Covino and Rich's insightful analysis.