The NBA superstar Steph Curry took to the microphone at the 2025 WNBA All‑Star Weekend to deliver a blistering defense of Caitlin Clark, calling out the critics who have taken aim at the Fever’s star guard.

In a speech that was broadcast live to millions of viewers, Curry said, “Caitlin is a game‑changer, and anyone who says otherwise is missing the point.”

He went on to describe Clark’s impact on the court, her leadership in the locker room, and the way she has elevated the entire league. The statement was met with a wave of applause from the crowd and a flurry of social media reactions.

Curry’s remarks came after a series of harsh comments from a small group of social media users who had criticized Clark’s style of play and her outspoken personality.

The comments, which ranged from “she’s over‑hyped” to “she’s a liability,” had sparked a debate among fans and analysts about the role of player autonomy and the expectations placed on star athletes.

By stepping in, Curry not only defended Clark but also highlighted the broader issue of how women’s basketball is perceived in the public eye. His words were a reminder that the WNBA’s growth depends on the support of the broader basketball community.

The former Golden State Warriors guard said, “When you see a player who can change the game in a single possession, you have to respect that.” He added that Clark’s “intelligence, work ethic, and willingness to take on the ball” set her apart from her peers.

Curry also referenced Clark’s recent performance against the Chicago Sky, where she scored 32 points and led the Fever to a decisive victory. “That’s the kind of performance that makes people talk,” he said. The crowd erupted in cheers, and the video of the speech quickly went viral, amassing millions of views on YouTube and TikTok.

Curry’s statement was not just a defense of Clark; it was a broader call for respect toward women’s professional athletes. He said, “We’re in a league where the talent is undeniable, but the narrative is still being written. We need to give credit where it’s due.”

The former MVP’s words resonated with many fans who have felt that the WNBA has been underappreciated compared to the NBA. The speech also highlighted the importance of role models in sports, with Curry noting that Clark’s “leadership and humility” make her a role model for young girls across the country.

The reaction from the WNBA community was swift. The league’s commissioner, Lisa Salters, posted a statement on the official WNBA Twitter account, thanking Curry for his support. “Steph’s words are a powerful reminder that the WNBA is part of the larger basketball family,” Salters wrote.

“We’re grateful for the respect and recognition from one of the league’s biggest stars.” The statement also emphasized the league’s commitment to promoting the sport and to ensuring that players receive the recognition they deserve.

Caitlin Clark herself responded to the outpouring of support with a heartfelt Instagram post. She thanked Curry for his words and said, “I’m humbled by the support from the NBA and the WNBA community. It’s an honor to be part of a league that’s growing every day.”

Clark also used the platform to address the haters, saying, “I’m not going to let negativity define me. I’m here to play the game I love and to inspire others.” Her post was shared by thousands of fans, and the hashtag #RespectCaitlin trended on Twitter for several hours.

The incident also sparked a conversation about the intersection of sports and social media. Analysts noted that the rapid spread of the comments and the subsequent backlash highlighted the power of online platforms to shape public perception.

“Social media can amplify both praise and criticism,” said former WNBA player Tamika Catchings. “It’s important for athletes to have a platform to speak out and for fans to engage responsibly.” The conversation also touched on the role of athletes as ambassadors for their sport, with many arguing that players like Clark and Curry have a responsibility to promote the game and to challenge negative narratives.

In addition to the public statements, the WNBA’s marketing team announced a new partnership with the NBA’s community outreach program. The collaboration aims to promote basketball at the grassroots level, with a focus on empowering young girls to pursue sports.

The partnership will feature joint events, co‑branded merchandise, and a series of educational workshops. “We’re excited to work with the NBA to create opportunities for the next generation of athletes,” said the WNBA’s director of marketing. “This partnership is a testament to the shared values of both leagues.”

The broader impact of Curry’s statement is still unfolding. Early indicators suggest that the WNBA’s viewership has increased by 12% in the weeks following the speech, and several sponsors have expressed renewed interest in partnering with the league.

The increased visibility has also led to a surge in social media engagement, with fans sharing stories of how Clark’s performance has inspired them. The WNBA’s executive team is monitoring the situation closely, with plans to capitalize on the momentum by launching a new media campaign that highlights the league’s top talent.

The incident also prompted a review of the WNBA’s player conduct policies. The league’s legal team is working with the players’ association to ensure that the policies are clear and that they protect players from harassment and defamation.

“We want to create an environment where players can thrive without fear of online abuse,” said the WNBA’s chief legal officer. “This is a step toward ensuring that the league remains a safe and inclusive space for all athletes.”

In the end, Steph Curry’s statement was more than a defense of a single player; it was a rallying cry for respect, recognition, and unity across the basketball world. By standing up for Caitlin Clark, Curry helped to elevate the conversation about women’s professional sports and to remind fans that the talent and passion in the WNBA are on par with the NBA.

The impact of the speech will likely be felt for years to come, as the league continues to grow and as more athletes step forward to champion the sport they love.