Indiana Fever player Caitlin Clark has been making waves in the WNBA since she was drafted, sparking discussions about race, likability, and jealousy among players. Some WNBA players have taken shots at her both on and off the court. For example, Chicago Sky’s Chennedy Carter delivered a flagrant foul on Clark, and a Connecticut Sun player referred to playing against her as “seat belt season.” Basketball trainer Chris Brickley, who has trained Sky rookie Angel Reese, believes that Clark is in a tough position, which may lead to people disliking her.
Brickley points out that people’s opinions of talented individuals like Clark can be polarizing – some will love them, while others will dislike them. This is just a part of life. A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces initially commented on Clark’s popularity, highlighting her race as a factor. However, Wilson later emphasized the positive shift in energy within the WNBA, moving away from gossip and focusing more on the game itself. She mentioned that the league is full of elite players who work hard and play at a high level, and that the current energy is one of trust and investment in the sport.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has clarified that Clark is not being targeted unfairly, despite the spotlight on her. She stated that Clark receives similar treatment on the court as other players. Despite the controversies and discussions surrounding her, Clark received the highest number of votes for the upcoming All-Star Game, surpassing Wilson by a significant margin.
It’s clear that Caitlin Clark’s presence in the WNBA has sparked various reactions and conversations among players and fans alike. As she continues to make her mark in the league, it will be interesting to see how her career unfolds and how she navigates the challenges and successes that come her way. Stay tuned for more updates on Caitlin Clark’s journey in the WNBA.