Sheryl Swoopes explains absence during Caitlin Clark's game controversy

Sheryl Swoopes, a WNBA Hall of Famer, recently addressed her absence from the broadcast booth during a Dallas Wings game against the Indiana Fever on September 1. Swoopes explained that she had fulfilled her seven-game contract with the Wings prior to this game, which led to her not being present as a color commentator. This absence sparked rumors that she had been replaced or fired due to her controversial history with rookie Caitlin Clark. Swoopes has been critical of Clark since her college days at Iowa, even making misleading comments about Clark's NCAA scoring record earlier this year. Following the game, Swoopes posted alleged screenshots of a conversation with a contact named Clark, in which she apologized for her previous statements. She later hosted a public discussion on X, clarifying her position and stating she would only apologize to Clark directly. The situation escalated further when fellow commentator Nancy Lieberman expressed that her relationship with Swoopes was strained due to disagreements over the accuracy of statements made about Clark. Lieberman emphasized the importance of facts in their discussions, indicating a significant rift between the two. Ultimately, Swoopes' absence from the broadcast was a contractual matter rather than a disciplinary action, highlighting the need for clear communication and understanding in professional sports commentary.