The WNBA MVP conversation has already sparked intense debate, even as the new season gets underway. Early betting favorites include Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart, with Clark and Wilson leading the race. This topic has quickly divided opinions among fans and analysts alike.
On the Hoopsology podcast, veteran broadcaster Meghan McPeak shared her candid thoughts on the current MVP odds. While acknowledging Clark’s talent and her rightful place in the discussion, McPeak strongly criticized how the betting lines are shaping up.
“Yeah, I would say it’s a level of disrespect. And I say it respectfully to Caitlin Clark, great player, phenomenal player, agreed. Obviously, last season was plagued with injuries. Respectfully, I think all three of those, A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart, deserve better odds,” McPeak said.
Her critique went beyond basketball merit. McPeak noted that MVP odds often reflect fan betting activity rather than pure analysis. Caitlin Clark, arguably the most commercially powerful figure in the sport, has a massive fan base actively driving bets in her direction. When that volume of money flows one way, oddsmakers adjust. This means Clark’s favorable position may owe more to her popularity than her championship credentials.
“If fans start getting tickets on A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart instead, the odds are better in their favor than it would be on Caitlin Clark,” McPeak explained.
Despite her criticism, McPeak didn’t rule out Clark from the MVP conversation entirely. She acknowledged Clark belongs in the mix. However, with lingering questions about how Clark will perform over a full, healthy season after last year’s injuries, McPeak isn’t ready to crown her as the frontrunner. She believes the proven stars—Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Napheesa Collier—remain the true leaders.
“The leaders in the clubhouse should be Stewie, A’ja, and Fee,” she said.
McPeak also argued that Kelsey Mitchell deserves recognition. She pointed to Mitchell’s performance last season when Clark was sidelined. “I would even, from last season, like what Kelsey Mitchell did for The Fever without Caitlin Clark, how are you not in the conversation? So let’s throw her in the conversation,” McPeak added.
