As the NBA world eagerly awaits the outcome of the 2024 NBA Finals, the 2024 WNBA season is in full swing. The league has experienced a massive uptick in viewership and interest, largely thanks to the presence of Caitlin Clark, who was drafted first overall by the Indiana Fever. Clark, a superstar guard during her collegiate career at Iowa, has brought new fans and viewers to the WNBA, though she is currently navigating the growing pains typical for a rookie.
Clark has encountered her share of challenges since turning professional, particularly in adapting to the increased physicality of the WNBA. She has been the recipient of several hard fouls, the most recent incident occurring in a game against the Chicago Sky, where Chennedy Carter knocked her to the ground. Recognizing the similarities in their experiences, Lakers guard Austin Reaves offered some advice to Clark (per Lakers Nation's Matt Peralta).
“I think you preach to just stick with it,” Reaves said. “Every rookie coming into professional sports, you have growing pains where you go through the physicality change from the college to the pros. I think the way teams are guarding her and showing her a lot of attention is just a respect to what she can do on the court.”
Reaves emphasized the importance of perseverance, noting that the physical challenges Clark faces are a testament to her abilities and the respect she commands from opponents.
“So I don’t think anyone should take it as anything different and I’m sure she’s not. I’m sure she’s watching film, doing everything she can do to get better every single game.
But I’m sure it’s more of a respect thing and I’d tell her that, that if those girls didn’t see her to be the player that she is and think she is then they wouldn’t be physical with her and trying to get after her to see how good she is.
You just tell her to stick with it because like I said, every rookie in any sport you play goes through growing pains. I’m going into year four and I’m still going through growing pains, still learning the game every single day. So just tell her to stick with it.”
Reaves is not the first Lakers player to offer Clark advice. LeBron James has also provided his perspective on her situation. Clark’s rise to prominence has drawn comparisons to James' own entry into the NBA, given the immense pressure and expectations placed upon her.
In an episode of his Mind The Game podcast with JJ Redick, James discussed Clark, highlighting her potential to significantly impact the WNBA.
“The one thing that I love that she’s bringing to her sport is more people want to watch. More people want to tune in. Don’t get it twisted, don’t get it f—– up, Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things are gonna happen for the WNBA.
But for her individually, I don’t think she should get involved on nothing that’s being said. Just go have fun, enjoy. But I’m rooting for Caitlin because I’ve been in that seat before. I’ve walked that road before. I hope she kills, I hope Aliyah Boston does amazing, I hope they do great.”
James continued, emphasizing the need for Clark to focus on her game and ignore the negativity.
“You know I’m just kind of in this mode right now because I’m getting the same thing from watching my son, who’s a 19-year old, getting a lot of animosity and hatred towards him when he’s just a kid trying to live out his dream.
There’s a very small number of men and women that actually get to live out their dream of playing a professional sport. And we have grown ass men and women out here doing whatever they can to try and make sure that does not happen. That is the weirdest thing in the world, but it is what it is and I’m glad that Caitlin has a great head on her shoulders.”
LeBron’s support underscores the unique pressures Clark faces as a highly-touted rookie. Despite these challenges, Clark’s impact on the WNBA has been profound. Her presence has not only boosted viewership but also led to significant changes within the league. The Fever rookie has drawn comparisons to legendary players and has been a driving force behind the WNBA's increased popularity.
Caitlin Clark's journey and impact on the WNBA so far
Clark recently played at the Crypto.com Arena against the Los Angeles Sparks, wearing a pair of Kobe Bryant’s shoes, a tribute to the Lakers legend and an indication of her respect for the game's history. This moment was symbolic of the bridge between the NBA and WNBA, highlighting the mutual respect and support between the two leagues.
In addition to the increased viewership, Clark’s presence has had tangible effects on the WNBA’s operations. The league has begun chartering flights, a significant upgrade from the commercial flights previously used, largely due to the increased revenue and interest generated by Clark (and other stars like her, but mainly Clark). Merchandise sales and media coverage have also seen substantial growth, reflecting the growing popularity of women's basketball.
However, the increased spotlight on Clark has come intensified scrutiny and physical play. Many opponents, driven by jealousy and competitiveness, have targeted Clark, resulting in numerous hard fouls and physical confrontations on the court. Despite these challenges, Clark has thrived, breaking numerous rookie records.
Her performance in the Indiana Fever’s close win against the Washington Mystics was particularly historic. After the game, she etched her name further into the WNBA record books, becoming the fastest player to reach 200 points and 50 assists in league history.
Clark's statistics are a testament to her exceptional talent and resilience. In just 12 games, she accumulated 202 points, 76 assists, and 64 rebounds, a remarkable achievement for any player, let alone a rookie. These milestones highlight her ability to adapt to the professional level quickly and effectively.
As the WNBA continues to grow, Clark’s contributions will undoubtedly be pivotal. Her ability to draw fans, media attention, and revenue is unmatched, making her a cornerstone for the league’s future. Despite the physical challenges and intense scrutiny, Clark's dedication and skill have set her on a path to greatness.
The advice from Austin Reaves and LeBron James serves as a reminder that even the most talented athletes face growing pains. Their support and insights reflect the camaraderie and mutual respect that transcends gender in professional basketball.
For Clark, the journey is just beginning, but with the backing of seasoned professionals and a rapidly expanding fan base, her potential seems limitless. As she continues to break records and elevate the WNBA, Caitlin Clark is not only living her dream but also paving the way for the future of women’s sports.
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