**Swoopes Clarifies Clark Award Snub Comments**

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Post on Oct 21, 2024

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Swoopes Clarifies Clark Award Snub Comments: "It's Not Personal"

**The basketball world was buzzing after legendary WNBA player Sheryl Swoopes seemingly threw shade at Lisa Leslie's selection for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame's John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award. But Swoopes, a three-time WNBA MVP and Olympic gold medalist herself, has taken to social media to clear the air. **

"Let's be clear, this isn't about me and Lisa. It's about the legacy of women's basketball," Swoopes wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. "I have the utmost respect for Lisa and her career. She's a legend. But the Bunn award is supposed to be for someone who has impacted the game beyond the court, and I feel like there are others who have done more in that area."

Swoopes' initial comments, which came in response to a question about the award during a recent interview, were taken by some as a direct jab at Leslie. She had expressed surprise that Leslie was chosen over other candidates, hinting that Leslie's contributions to the game might not be as impactful as some others'.

**Swoopes, who has been a vocal advocate for women's basketball and its rightful place in history, went on to explain that she believes the Bunn award should honor individuals who have made "a real difference" in promoting and developing the sport. She cited examples of pioneers like Lusia Harris, the first woman drafted by the NBA, and Ann Meyers Drysdale, the first woman to be awarded a full basketball scholarship to a major university. **

"We're still fighting for equality and recognition in basketball," Swoopes stated. "The Bunn award is a chance to celebrate those who have fought for us, who have paved the way. I just want to see that legacy honored properly."

It's important to note that Swoopes has a history of speaking her mind about the issues surrounding women in sports. Her passion for the cause is undeniable, and her comments, while initially misunderstood, are rooted in a deep desire to see women's basketball get its due respect.

While some might see this whole thing as a little bit dramatic, it's really just a passionate plea for recognition. And let's be honest, Swoopes is right. There are so many amazing women who deserve to be celebrated for their contributions to the game. Maybe this whole thing will actually help bring more attention to the incredible history of women's basketball!