The WNBA scene was abuzz on Sunday when the Indiana Fever, led by rising star Caitlin Clark, faced off against the Dallas Wings. Given Sheryl Swoopes’ role as an analyst for the Wings and her well-documented critical stance on Clark, many anticipated a potential clash. However, Swoopes’ absence from the broadcast booth stirred curiosity and speculation.
Sheryl Swoopes, a legendary figure in women’s basketball, was notably absent from the broadcast during the Wings-Fever game. Instead, fellow WNBA icon Nancy Lieberman took to the commentary alongside Ron Thulin. This switch led to a flurry of speculation online, with many questioning if Swoopes had been “replaced” or removed due to her previous criticisms of Clark.
In reality, Swoopes’ absence was part of a pre-established rotation among the team’s analysts. The Wings had announced Swoopes, Lieberman, and Fran Harris as their analysts back in April, with a plan for them to rotate throughout the season. Lieberman had already covered other games earlier in the season, so her presence for this game was consistent with that rotation.
The notion of Swoopes being sidelined for the game gains added complexity considering her earlier interactions with Clark. Swoopes had previously called one of Clark’s games and even interviewed her in May. Despite this, tensions have remained, with Swoopes being vocal about her criticisms of Clark’s achievements and playing style.
Given Swoopes’ past remarks and the heightened scrutiny of her opinions on Clark, having her in the booth could have introduced an uncomfortable dynamic. The game, broadcast nationally on NBATV, was always likely to draw significant attention, and any comments from Swoopes would have been closely analyzed, potentially overshadowing the on-court action.
The next matchup between the Wings and Fever is set for September 15th in Indiana, and it remains to be seen whether Swoopes will be part of that broadcast. If she is absent again, it might further fuel speculation about her role in covering games involving Clark.
The decision to have Lieberman call the game instead of Swoopes seems to have been a prudent one, avoiding what could have been a contentious situation. With the focus on the game itself and the impressive performances from Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, the absence of Swoopes allowed the matchup to proceed without additional drama.