ESPN host Elle Duncan's halftime commentary during the WNBA All-Star Game has sparked a debate online. Duncan, known for her witty remarks, drew both laughter and criticism with a joke about the game's lack of defense.
The Joke That Divided Viewers
During the ABC broadcast, with Napheesa Collier's team leading Caitlin Clark's squad 82-60, Duncan quipped, "We hope it gets a little bit more competitive. Because like a girls' trip to Cancun, right now, there's no D." The remark, alluding to the absence of defense ('D') in the game, was met with a quick reaction from ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, who jokingly put Duncan "in timeout."
Social Media Reacts: Mixed Reviews
The clip quickly spread across social media, eliciting a range of responses. Some viewers found Duncan's humor amusing, while others deemed it inappropriate and disrespectful to the WNBA and its players.
- "Add this to a long list of why no one takes @WNBA or @espn seriously," one X user commented.
- Another user drew a comparison to comedian Shane Gillis, suggesting that Duncan would face harsher criticism if a male comedian had made a similar joke.
However, other viewers defended Duncan, praising her humor and pointing out the lighthearted nature of an All-Star Game.
Defense Optional: The Game Itself
Regardless of the controversy surrounding Duncan's comment, the WNBA All-Star Game continued with a high-scoring affair. Team Collier ultimately defeated Team Clark 151-131, with Napheesa Collier leading the way with 36 points. Caitlin Clark, unfortunately, missed the game due to a groin injury.
The incident highlights the ongoing discussion about the perception and treatment of women's sports, as well as the evolving standards of humor in broadcasting. Whether Duncan's joke was a harmless jab or a misstep remains a matter of opinion, fueling conversations about sports commentary and sensitivity.