Caitlin Clark is swiftly establishing herself as a transformative figure in the world of basketball, not just among fans but also among legendary WNBA players. Sue Bird, a player who dedicated her entire career to the Seattle Storm, is the latest to laud Clark’s profound influence on the league following an electrifying rookie season. Bird’s praise highlights Clark’s exceptional ability to captivate both fans and fellow athletes, marking a shift in how the WNBA is perceived.
Having dominated NCAA Division I with Iowa, Clark’s transition to the WNBA has been nothing short of remarkable. Her performances on the court have attracted a fresh wave of basketball fans, contributing to the rapid growth of the WNBA as one of the most exciting sports leagues globally. Clark’s presence has sparked a surge in viewership and merchandise sales, as fans eagerly anticipate her appearances with the Indiana Fever, cementing her status as a key driver behind the league’s increasing popularity.
Bird, widely regarded as one of the best players in the history of women’s basketball, credited Clark for the WNBA’s rise in visibility. Bird recalled how, prior to Clark’s arrival, the league struggled to gain serious recognition, often dismissed as a subject of jokes. In a candid conversation on *The Deal* podcast, Bird explained that the WNBA was largely overlooked, but Clark’s entry into the league shifted the narrative entirely. “The fire was starting, but Caitlin came and she poured gasoline all over that thing,” Bird remarked, acknowledging Clark’s pivotal role in propelling the WNBA into the mainstream.
Clark’s rookie year has been nothing short of historic. Drafted by the Indiana Fever as the No. 1 overall pick in April, she made an immediate impact, averaging 19.2 points per game, securing two triple-doubles, winning Rookie of the Year, and leading the Fever to the playoffs. Her performance not only earned her accolades but also captured the admiration of fans and analysts alike, especially due to her fearless shooting from long range. Clark’s ability to attempt—and make—more three-pointers than any other player in the WNBA last season, with an average of 8.9 attempts per game at a 34.4% success rate, left an indelible mark.
Bird, a four-time champion at 44 years old, commended Clark for her audacity in attempting the “logo 3,” a long-range shot from well beyond the three-point line that has become Clark’s trademark. Bird sees this shot as a game-changer, likening it to the NBA’s iconic dunk in its ability to shift perceptions and inspire awe. “We finally had the antidote to dunking,” Bird said, emphasizing how Clark’s signature shot has silenced critics who previously doubted the WNBA’s appeal. Bird believes that Clark’s logo 3 has redefined the sport, making it clear that the WNBA is a league of its own, full of players capable of breathtaking feats.
