Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy isn’t known for staying silent—and this time, he’s taking aim at critics of WNBA players who are demanding better pay.

In a recent fiery rant, Portnoy called out what he described as “morons” who believe WNBA athletes don’t deserve higher salaries. He argued that the criticism surrounding the women’s league is rooted in ignorance and a failure to understand the economic and cultural value these athletes bring to the game.

“People say WNBA players don’t generate enough revenue. Okay, but that’s changing—and fast. The demand, the attention, the ticket sales—they’re all growing. And anyone who still thinks they don’t deserve better pay is just out of touch,” Portnoy said.

His comments come amid a wave of national conversation around pay equity in sports, especially as WNBA stars like Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart draw massive media attention and fan engagement.

Portnoy also emphasized that while the WNBA may not yet match the NBA in revenue, that doesn’t mean players should be stuck earning a fraction of what male athletes make. He pointed out that young fans, especially girls, are now looking up to these women—and the league is building momentum faster than many expected.

“If you can’t recognize the direction this league is heading, you’re just being willfully blind,” Portnoy added. “You don’t have to like the WNBA. But respect what these athletes are doing.”

While Dave Portnoy is often a polarizing figure, his latest comments have sparked widespread discussion—both supportive and critical—about the future of women’s sports and the role public figures play in shaping that conversation.