As UConn dominated UCLA 85-51 in the Final Four, Sue Bird had exciting news: Caitlin Clark will join her and Diana Taurasi on their popular altcast, The Bird & Taurasi Show, during Sunday’s National Championship game between UConn and South Carolina. This marks Clark’s second appearance on the alternative broadcast after a standout college career that turned Iowa into a national powerhouse. Unlike last year, when Aliyah Boston provided studio coverage for ESPN, Clark won’t take on a traditional studio analyst role, but she’ll still be prominently featured alongside two of the sport’s biggest stars.
Caitlin Clark will be joining the popular Sue Bird/Diana Taurasi altcast for Sunday’s National Championship. pic.twitter.com/p6RUDxM7kU
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 5, 2025
Bird and Taurasi have been hosting this Final Four altcast for four consecutive years, making it a highlight of championship weekend. Regarding the rumored tension between Clark and Taurasi, it seemed more like a media-driven narrative than genuine animosity, largely stemming from Taurasi’s comments at last year’s Final Four, where she remarked on the challenges even a player like Clark might face in the WNBA.
Taurasi later clarified her remarks, commending Clark for her ability to “step up to the plate.” Despite the hype surrounding a feud, the perceived conflict appears exaggerated. While Taurasi has embraced her role as the WNBA’s villain, there is a foundation of mutual respect. Bird expressed enthusiasm, stating, “It will be nice to have Caitlin back as a pro,” while Taurasi added, “She was a college kid; Caitlin’s grown. Boy, Caitlin’s amazing.”
Both Bird and Taurasi are excited about Clark’s participation, and ESPN is surely keeping an eye on the ratings. Clark will attract viewers, even if she’s only present for part of the game, as her name alone secures significant attention.