Christine Brennan highlights Caitlin Clark’s trailblazing journey in new book
Caitlin Clark has emerged as one of the league’s most recognizable figures since her name was announced at the WNBA draft, helping to break attendance and viewership records. “On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports,” a new book, delves further into the career and future plans of the former Iowa Hawkeyes star.
The book was written by Christine Brennan, the Association for Women in Sports Media’s first elected president.
According to Brennan, Clark is an entertainer who is well-known for her thrilling style of play, which includes long-range shooting and inventive assists.
“Her playing style, the joy and fun that come with being an entertainer, and that’s entertainment.” And that is what goes beyond athletics. Similar to Tiger Woods, that’s where the grandparents and grandmothers are in the produce section discussing their plans for the evening and making sure to watch the Fever,” Brennan said. “I covered him for the entirety of his career, and the same thing happened here: Tiger was watched by people who had no interest in golf. And it explains the amazing record attendance and TV ratings, as well as the widespread affection and support for this single 23-year-old athlete.”
Brennan observed that the perception of women’s sports has completely changed. For instance, the average attendance at Indiana Fever home games last season was higher than that of five NBA teams.
“What we’ve produced with our daughters, nieces, and the girl you wave at in the driveway while she’s hauling her volleyball equipment and switching to her soccer gear in the car before playing lacrosse has captured the hearts of the country.” It’s a nationwide occurrence. She added, “Caitlin Clark is a lot more than just a sporting narrative.
The topic of race and how Clark manages to garner a lot of attention in a league that is dominated by Black people is one that Brennan discusses in the book. According to Brennan, most people agree that if Clark had been Black, her ascent to fame would have been different. Brennan, though, believes that Clark’s arrival to the league will benefit all of the players.
It also highlights all of those amazing athletes, the most of whom are Black, who have long earned recognition but were never given it by the male-dominated mainstream sports media. She added, “They’re getting it now.” “Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah, and A’ja Wilson Boston, a lot of these outstanding players who were overlooked are suddenly receiving the recognition they merit. All boats are lifted by the rising tide.
