The amount of venom that WNBA players have been spewing at Caitlin Clark seems very perplexing. A’ja Wilson and Becky Hammon, though, made an effort to finish this story. In an interview with reporters, the star player and coach of the Las Vegas Aces did just that by praising the youngster from the Indiana Fever.
From an outsider’s viewpoint, JJ Redick and Charles Barkley are not incorrect to say that Caitlin Clark is the target of haters from the WNBA. Perhaps stories like these are being fueled by the fact that Clark is not given special attention. Becky Hammon made an effort to dispel the misconception, though. She said,
“We love Caitlin Clark,” “I think she’s amazing… We’re just doing our job. We’re gonna show up. Whoever’s on the other team is on the other team… I think this narrative of everybody hating on Caitlin Clark… Knock it off, it’s not there. So shut down the noise,” “By the way, what is she, 22? She’s a 22-year-old woman with a lot of pressure. She’s not perfect, she’s a rookie in this league. Back off,”
“Let’s be very clear, we love Caitlin Clark…I think this narrative of everybody hating on her…knock it off it’s not there.”
Good stuff here by @LVAces Head Coach @BeckyHammon and @_ajawilson22 on the national conversation surrounding the @WNBA star rookie. @KTNV pic.twitter.com/kAutGYVth4
— Alex Eschelman (@alexeschelman) May 24, 2024
Caitlin Clark’s impact in WNBA
After an incredible 2023–2024 college year, Clark was anticipated to have an immediate impact on the WNBA. But the sharpshooter’s winless record in her first five games has drawn criticism from some who doubt her abilities. In addition to ending the narrative of hatred, Becky shielded Clark from all of these doubters.
A’ja Wilson offered her opinion on the matter as well. She laughed off, like Hammon, the notion that the WNBA was making fun of Clark. The two-time MVP also expressed sympathy for the rookie.
Many people on social media thought that Becky Hammon and A’ja Wilson’s defense of Caitlin Clark was an attempt to maintain their public persona. The former did, however, admit the influence Clark has had on the league—more eyes, team charters, etc.
