Denver Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr. is facing criticism from WNBA players after making a controversial comparison between women’s basketball and ping pong during a recent podcast appearance on ‘The Pivot.’
Breanna Stewart’s Signature Shoes and Pay Equity Advocacy
Porter Jr. had previously garnered attention for wearing Breanna Stewart’s signature shoes as a gesture to bring awareness to the WNBA and support women players in their fight for pay equity. However, his recent comments have sparked a backlash.
Controversial Ping Pong Analogy
During ‘The Pivot’ podcast, Porter Jr. acknowledged the talent of WNBA players but argued against equal pay, drawing a parallel with ping pong. He stated, “The best ping pong player is just as talented as the best basketball player, that doesn’t mean they’re going to get paid the same. It’s what the people want to watch.” Porter Jr. suggested that the revenue generation and viewership for women’s basketball are not comparable to men’s, justifying the pay difference.
Pushback and Clarification
The comments received immediate pushback, with former NFL safety Ryan Clark highlighting that female players are seeking an equal “revenue share” rather than identical pay. This aligns with the WNBA players’ demand for a fair percentage of revenue generated by the league.
Porter Jr. later suggested lowering the rims in women’s basketball to increase excitement, responding to a comment by podcast host Channing Crowder that the perceived WNBA as less exciting.
WNBA Players’ Response
Players like Kelsey Plum, among others, have previously emphasized that the focus is on achieving a fair percentage of revenue rather than mirroring men’s salaries. The backlash highlights ongoing discussions about gender pay equity and fair treatment within women’s sports organizations.
In a previous interview with Boardroom, Michael Porter Jr. had expressed admiration for female basketball players in his family, especially his mother Lisa, who had an impressive high school basketball career, averaging 58.7 points per game as a senior.
When he was drafted, one NBA doctor (the Clippers’ doctor) said Michael Porter Jr. would never play basketball again due to his back. Tonight, Porter hit his 567th career 3-pointer, the sixth-most in Nuggets franchise history.
— Harrison Wind (@HarrisonWind) February 5, 2024
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