Former ESPN personality Linda Cohn has recently voiced strong criticism regarding the WNBA's marketing strategies, particularly concerning its approach to star player Caitlin Clark. Cohn contends that the league is failing to capitalize on Clark's unprecedented popularity to benefit other athletes and the WNBA as a whole. She draws parallels to the NBA's historical success in promoting iconic figures like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, suggesting that fully embracing Clark as a central figure would lead to explosive growth for women's basketball.
Analyst Highlights Missed Opportunities in WNBA's Star Promotion
On August 19, 2026, former ESPN anchor Linda Cohn publicly articulated her views on the WNBA's promotional tactics, specifically noting a perceived misstep in their handling of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. According to Cohn, the league and its associated media outlets are "getting this completely backwards." She advocates for a strategy where other stars are promoted "through Caitlin Clark," rather than attempting to promote them "instead of" her. Cohn emphasized that Clark's arrival in the WNBA has undeniably attracted a massive new audience, a phenomenon she believes the league should fully leverage.
Cohn highlighted the NBA's historical success in the 1980s, where the league strategically showcased its brightest talents, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. This approach, she argued, led to an "explosive popularity" that continued with subsequent stars like Michael Jordan. She believes the WNBA should adopt a similar philosophy, acknowledging that Clark's star power is currently unmatched and represents a unique opportunity for league-wide growth. Her remarks resonated with many fans, who echoed sentiments that the WNBA could achieve greater popularity by strategically promoting its biggest draw. Comments on social media platforms, including X and YouTube, supported Cohn's perspective, drawing comparisons to the impact of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky on the NHL's expansion.
This discussion underscores a critical point for sports leagues: the strategic importance of recognizing and promoting breakout stars. Caitlin Clark's record-breaking viewership and attendance figures indicate a significant shift in audience engagement for the WNBA. By embracing her as a pivotal figure, the league has the potential to expand its reach, attract new fans, and ultimately elevate the profiles of its entire roster of talented athletes. Cohn's insight serves as a reminder that effective marketing often means amplifying what is already resonating with the public, using a dominant force to create a rising tide for all.