The face of the league… traded? That’s what the rumors say — and sports commentator Colin Cowherd isn’t holding back. He’s calling out the WNBA for what he says is jealousy, politics, and fear of Caitlin Clark’s rising influence.

United States — The WNBA is once again in the spotlight, and not for a highlight reel.

Trade rumors surrounding rookie phenom Caitlin Clark have erupted across social media and sports outlets, suggesting that some league insiders are “open” to the idea of moving the star away from the Indiana Fever — and possibly to a more “media-friendly” or “balanced” team.

While the rumors remain unconfirmed, one major sports voice has jumped into the fire — and he’s not mincing words.

COWHERD GOES OFF: “THEY’RE THREATENED BY HER”

On a fiery episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the outspoken FOX Sports analyst lit up the WNBA and its leadership, blasting them for what he called “the worst PR and power-play fumble in modern women’s sports.”

“Caitlin Clark isn’t the problem. She’s the reason you’re relevant,” Cowherd said.
“And now you’re whispering about trading her? Why? Because she’s outshining your veterans? That’s pathetic.”

Cowherd went further, claiming that some longtime players and execs are “quietly uncomfortable” with the attention Clark is receiving — and instead of embracing the new era, the league is looking for ways to diminish her influence.

“They’d rather keep things average and controlled,” he said. “But you don’t grow a sport with silence. You grow it with stars.”

THE TRADE RUMORS: WHERE DID THEY COME FROM?

The trade talk began as whispers on NBA and WNBA forums, with some insiders suggesting that “friction” between Clark and certain teammates, as well as the league’s behind-the-scenes politics, may lead to a surprise offseason shake-up.

One anonymous GM was quoted saying:

“If she ends the season with top numbers but her team stays near the bottom, don’t be surprised if phone calls are made.”

That line sent fans into a frenzy.

SOCIAL MEDIA EXPLODES: “TRADE CLARK?! ARE YOU INSANE?”

Once the rumors went viral, the backlash was instant.

💬 “She’s the only reason people are watching. If the WNBA trades her, they deserve to fold.”
💬 “You don’t trade Caitlin Clark — you build a dynasty around her.”
💬 “This would be the dumbest move in sports history. Period.”

Hashtags like #ProtectCaitlinClark, #WNBATradeRumors, and #ColinCowherdWasRight trended for hours after Cowherd’s rant aired.

THE FEVER RESPOND: “WE’RE NOT TRADING HER”

To calm the storm, a spokesperson for the Indiana Fever released a short but firm statement:

“Caitlin Clark is a foundational part of our franchise.
Any rumors suggesting we’re entertaining trade discussions are false and irresponsible.”

Still, many fans believe that where there’s smoke, there’s fire — and Cowherd’s commentary has only made them more skeptical of the league’s intentions.

COWHERD’S FINAL BLOW: “YOU’RE AFRAID OF HER POWER”

Cowherd doubled down later in the segment, saying:

“Let’s be honest — the league isn’t used to this much attention.
They’re not used to sold-out arenas, jersey sellouts, or national debates.
And they’re trying to tame it. But Caitlin Clark is the storm — and good luck trying to put lightning in a bottle.”

He added that the WNBA has a decision to make:
Embrace the change — or risk losing the very momentum they’ve been begging for.

PLAYERS AND ANALYSTS REACT

WNBA legends and current stars offered mixed reactions.

Candace Parker tweeted:

“Grow the game. Don’t control it. Let the stars shine.”

A’ja Wilson posted a cryptic Instagram story:

“Jealousy looks ugly in HD.”

Meanwhile, some former players urged fans not to jump to conclusions — insisting that team building, not politics, drives trades.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CLARK?

As it stands:

Clark continues to lead the Fever in scoring and assists

She’s the top-selling jersey in the WNBA