WNBA Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman leapt to the defense of rising star Caitlin Clark after former NBA guard Jeff Teague dismissed her performance, saying she was “good, but not great.” Lieberman’s response struck back forcefully—calling Teague “serviceable” and underscored just how unfair the dismissal felt to many in the basketball community.

During a recent episode of his Club 520 podcast, Teague casually downplayed Clark’s impact while discussing her recovery from injury, suggesting she lacked greatness. “She’s good, but she’s not that good,” he remarked, drawing widespread criticism for his tone and perspective.

Lieberman didn’t hold back on the 3s and Ones podcast, where she issued a stinging rebuttal: “Jeff, I love you—but you weren’t a great player. You were serviceable. I know you made the All-Star team one time. I’m happy for your career—but she is great.” Her comments quickly went viral, with fans applauding her unapologetic defense of Clark’s talent and impact.

The exchange sparked heated debate across social media and sports media circles. Many lauded Lieberman’s perspective—especially given her own legendary career in women’s basketball and packed Hall of Fame resume. Her fierce honesty sent a clear message: Clark’s accomplishments demand respect, not dismissiveness.

Caitlin Clark’s rookie season in the WNBA did not fit any standard script. She secured Rookie of the Year honors, earned All-Star recognition, and cranked up highlight-reel performances with record-breaking scoring and assists. Her college legacy, including becoming the all-time leading scorer in Division I history, adds to her growing legend.

Lieberman’s defense underscores the broader conversation about how women athletes—not only in the WNBA, but across sports—are evaluated and spoken about in public discourse. There’s growing concern that female players often face undue scrutiny rooted in outdated notions of physicality, prestige, or precedent.

Some celebrate Lieberman’s bold takedown of Teague as a victory for thoughtful, assertive commentary in sports. Her words reflect not only her respect for Clark as a player but also a recognition of how far the women’s game has come—and what it means when a rising star is diminished unfairly.

Teague hasn’t remained silent. On social media, he dismissed the backlash. “I just said I thought she’s good, not great,” he wrote. He even compared his post-career path to that of Lieberman’s son in BIG3, joking, “my mom didn’t draft me though.” His tone, once again, fueled debate over accountability and the tone men use when critiquing women in sports.

Beyond the headlines, the energy sparked by this clash may have broader implications. Coaches, players, and analysts face increasing pressure to lift the standard of respectful commentary in sports culture. Clark, for her part, remains focused on recovery and her return to action, as the Fever emphasize long-term health over rushing her back.

As the conversation continues to simmer, one thing is certain: both Caitlin Clark and Nancy Lieberman have made their marks—not just through skill on the court, but through the power of defending rightful respect for women in sports.