The recent episode of “All the Smoke” featured an insightful conversation with Cheryl Miller, a true legend of women’s basketball. This discussion covered a broad spectrum of topics, including her historic impact on the sport, the evolution of the WNBA, the rise of players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, and the future of women’s basketball. The dialogue also explored the challenges and triumphs faced by female athletes in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Cheryl Miller’s Impact and Legacy

Cheryl Miller is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Despite her numerous accolades, including three-time Player of the Year, two-time national champion, and the first woman to dunk in an organized game, she played at a time when professional opportunities for women were extremely limited. Reflecting on her career, Miller expressed no regrets, instead choosing to celebrate the progress made by the next generation of female athletes. She recognized the contributions of pioneers before her, such as Ann Meyers and Nancy Lieberman, and emphasized the importance of laying a foundation for future stars.

The Evolution of the Women’s Game

One of the key points Miller highlighted was how different the landscape of women’s basketball is today compared to when she played. With the establishment of the WNBA and increasing opportunities for women to play professionally overseas, the path for female athletes has become more structured and financially viable. Miller acknowledged the strides made in terms of visibility and compensation, while also noting that there is still room for growth. She expressed joy in seeing today’s female athletes use their voices, platforms, and talents to push the game forward.

Coaching at the WNBA All-Star Game and Caitlin Clark’s Impact

During the conversation, Miller shared her experience coaching at the WNBA All-Star Game, where she had the opportunity to work with Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. She described coaching them as “the best job ever” and was particularly impressed by Clark’s game intelligence, court vision, and defensive ability. While Clark has been a polarizing figure due to her confidence and media portrayal, Miller drew parallels between her experiences as a black woman facing adversity and Clark’s own journey as a white athlete dealing with intense scrutiny.

Miller emphasized that despite the media’s attempts to create narratives of division, Clark and Reese displayed great chemistry and mutual respect on the court. She compared their dynamic to the legendary rivalry and friendship between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, noting that such high-profile rivalries have historically been instrumental in elevating the sport’s popularity. She encouraged other players to recognize the opportunities that Clark’s visibility has created for women’s basketball rather than being resentful of her media coverage.

The Importance of NIL and the WNBA’s Four-Year Rule

One of the more controversial topics discussed was the WNBA’s rule requiring players to wait four years before entering the league. While some argue that this rule is outdated, Miller firmly supported its continuation. She pointed out that with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, top college players can now earn significantly more money in college than they would in the WNBA. Given the financial structure of the WNBA, she believes it is in players’ best interests to stay in college longer, build their brand, and secure their financial future before transitioning to the professional league.

Miller noted the contrast between men’s and women’s basketball, explaining that while the NBA is where players build their legacy, the NCAA is currently where women’s players make their money. She urged young athletes to embrace this reality and use their college years to solidify their careers and maximize their earning potential.

The Future of Women’s Basketball and Alternative Leagues

A particularly intriguing discussion revolved around the rise of alternative leagues, such as Unrivaled, which provide players with additional professional opportunities outside the WNBA. Miller speculated that the WNBA may have initially been resistant to Unrivaled, viewing it as competition. However, she emphasized that rather than seeing it as a threat, the WNBA should embrace the growth of women’s basketball and recognize that multiple leagues can coexist and contribute to the sport’s overall success.

Miller expressed admiration for the business savvy of Unrivaled’s founders and their ability to attract top talent. She highlighted the importance of creating an infrastructure that financially supports players while allowing them to stay in the U.S. instead of going overseas for better salaries. She also emphasized that the WNBA must learn from past mistakes, particularly its failure to consistently engage with fans and sponsors. By fostering stronger relationships with stakeholders and embracing innovation, the league can ensure its longevity and continued growth.

Cheryl Miller’s Potential Role in the WNBA

Towards the end of the interview, Miller was asked about the recent push for her to take on a leadership role within the WNBA. While she admitted she briefly considered coaching after her success at the All-Star Game, she ultimately decided against it due to the immense workload involved. Instead, she expressed interest in being a consultant, using her expertise to provide honest, no-nonsense feedback on league decisions.

Her vision for such a role would involve assessing key decisions, evaluating player trades, and ensuring the league prioritizes long-term success over short-term gains. Given her deep understanding of the game and business acumen, Miller’s involvement in a leadership capacity could be a game-changer for the WNBA.

Conclusion

The conversation with Cheryl Miller provided a fascinating look at the current state of women’s basketball and the challenges and opportunities facing the WNBA. From her personal experiences as a trailblazer to her insights on Caitlin Clark, NIL deals, and the emergence of alternative leagues, Miller’s perspective was both candid and enlightening.

Her message was clear: Women’s basketball has come a long way, but there is still work to be done. By supporting one another, embracing new opportunities, and making strategic decisions, the sport can continue to thrive. Whether or not Miller takes on a leadership role in the WNBA, her voice remains one of the most respected in the game, and her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.