Caitlin Clark, WNBA rookies have chance to ‘set this league on fire,’ Billie Jean King says

At the 1971 U.S. Open, tennis icon Billie Jean King gathered the seasoned players and addressed their envy towards 16-year-old prodigy Chris Evert.

“She’s the reason we’re drawing these crowds,” King recounted in a phone interview. “I told them Chris is a boon for our sport. Look at the turnout. She’s the next big thing. She’s going to bring in more revenue.”

However, King emphasized, “That means we all need to be more welcoming. When you’re facing her on court, play tough as always, but no underhanded tactics. It’s our responsibility to ensure she’s treated fairly.”

Reflecting on those days and the lessons learned, King remarked about the WNBA’s current rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.

“As remarkable as the WNBA has been with stars like Maya Moore, Sheryl Swoopes, Candace Parker, Diana Taurasi, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart, this year marks a turning point, and it’s because of Caitlin,” she said. “Breaking college records, everyone sporting No. 22 jerseys. Things are looking up for the WNBA, for women’s sports. They’re a win-win for everyone, with sold-out games and heightened interest, and we must maintain that momentum.”

“Whether you agree or not, Caitlin is the catalyst for much of this interest. She’s a superstar. Her success benefits everyone. The league thrives. The veterans laid the foundation, and now Caitlin and her rookie class have a remarkable platform to elevate the league to new heights.”

King emphasized the importance of the current moment for the WNBA. “This generation holds the key to the WNBA’s future; they must set an example. Kids are watching. How do you want to be remembered? This generation can ignite the league. Don’t squander it with resentment. Just play ball. Play hard, but play fair.”

On X (formerly Twitter), Evert commended King’s actions in 1971 and drew parallels to the WNBA and Clark:

“Yes, there was jealousy towards me…It wasn’t easy. I was just a teen. BJK stood up for me. 💓 I hope women’s basketball follows suit. @CaitlinClark22 is enhancing the sport.”

King, who met Clark for the first time after the Indiana Fever-New York Liberty game on May 18, also commended Clark’s conduct during her initial weeks as a pro.

“Caitlin has displayed remarkable leadership,” King remarked, “staying neutral, inclusive, and not getting drawn into controversies.”

King noted the similarities between Evert’s impact in 1971 and Clark’s contributions in both college and the pros, driving record attendance and TV ratings for women’s basketball.

“As I told the players in 1971, ‘Do you realize how many more people are watching us because of Chris?’

“And they responded, ‘Well, the stands are packed.’

“And I said, ‘Were they packed two days ago before Chris?’

“‘Not really,’ they said.

“‘Well, there you go.'”

King concluded: “I’ve witnessed this before. It’s a different era, larger scale, but the principles remain the same.”