The Stephen A. Smith Show: Episode Summary Episode Title: Stephen A's Take: WNBA is back and so is Ms. Box Office Caitlin Clark
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith and iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the resurgence of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) with a particular spotlight on the sensational Caitlin Clark. Smith offers his unfiltered analysis, celebrating Clark's achievements and discussing the broader implications for the WNBA's popularity and future.

Caitlin Clark's Stellar Performance and Impact

Stephen A. Smith opens the discussion by highlighting Caitlin Clark's remarkable performance in the recent WNBA preseason. He emphasizes Clark's pivotal role in the Indiana Fever's victory over the Brazilian national team, a game that marked a significant homecoming event.

• Key Highlights:
  • Game Performance: Clark scored an impressive 16 points, dished out five assists, and grabbed six rebounds.
  • Clutch Moments: She hit a crucial 36-foot three-pointer, mirroring her NCAA Women's basketball career scoring record-breaking shot.

Notable Quote:
"Caitlyn Clark is the real deal. Let me get, let me get that out the way first. I got a lot of respect, a lot of love for this young, young lady. I think she's spectacular. I think she's box office."
[01:50]

Caitlin Clark's Achievements and Records

Smith provides an in-depth overview of Clark's historic rookie season, underscoring her dominance and the records she shattered:

• Rookie of the Year: Unanimously selected as the WNBA Rookie of the Year.
• All-WNBA First Team: Earned a spot on the prestigious All-WNBA First Team.
• MVP Voting: Finished fourth in the league MVP voting, signaling her impact beyond just her team.
• Statistical Milestones:
  • Led rookies in scoring, field goals made, three-point field goals made, assists, steals, and minutes played.
  • Set regular-season WNBA records with:
    • Assists: 337
    • Points Scored or Assisted On: 1,520
    • Three-Point Field Goals Made: 122

Notable Quote:
"She was the net, the unanimous rookie of the year. She was an All WNBA first teamer. She finished fourth in league MVP voting."
[02:45]

Impact on the WNBA and Future Prospects

Smith doesn't just stop at Clark's individual achievements; he explores her broader impact on the league's visibility and popularity. He attributes a significant increase in WNBA ratings to Clark's "box office" appeal and sold-out events.

• League Visibility: Clark's presence has made the WNBA a topic of everyday conversation, challenging skeptics about its relevance.
• Future Stars: Smith expresses excitement for upcoming talents like Paige Beckers and Juju Watkins, indicating a promising future for the league.

Notable Quote:
"WNBA is worthy of being talked about on an everyday basis to McGur Cheney Ogum from ESPN, Andrea Carter from ESPN. Are you happy now?"
[04:15]

Looking Ahead: Season Two Expectations

With a year of rest and extensive offseason preparation, Smith is optimistic about Clark's continued excellence in her sophomore season. He anticipates that Clark will surpass her rookie year, leveraging her experience and the lessons learned to elevate her game further.

Notable Quote:
"This time around she's got more rest and she got had an entire offseason to prepare for this full day WNBA season that's about to come on. She's special."
[03:30]

Conclusion

Stephen A. Smith wraps up the segment by reaffirming Caitlin Clark's pivotal role in the WNBA's resurgence. His passionate endorsement serves as both a celebration of Clark's achievements and a rallying call for increased recognition and support for women's basketball.

Key Takeaways:

• Caitlin Clark has had a groundbreaking impact on the WNBA, setting multiple records in her rookie season.
• Her "box office" appeal has significantly boosted the league's visibility and ratings.
• Expectations are high for Clark's sophomore season, with anticipation of even greater achievements.
• The WNBA is gaining traction as a mainstream sports conversation topic, thanks in part to standout players like Clark.

For listeners who missed the episode, Stephen A. Smith provides a comprehensive and enthusiastic analysis of Caitlin Clark's influence on the WNBA, painting a promising picture for the league's future.