Caitlin Clark delivered a dazzling rookie season with the Indiana Fever, earning the Rookie of the Year title while leading her team to the playoffs. Her impressive debut has stirred up accusations of jealousy among some of her peers, now labeled as “bitter and angry.” At just 22, Clark posted stellar stats, averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, showcasing her exceptional skill and playmaking ability throughout the season.
Clark’s emergence as a once-in-a-generation talent has propelled her into the spotlight, significantly boosting WNBA viewership. She has not only captivated fans with her gameplay but has also caught the attention of NBA legend Charles Barkley, who admires her contributions to the sport. However, Barkley has cautioned that Clark’s time at the top could be short-lived, citing the ascent of 19-year-old USC guard JuJu Watkins as a formidable future competitor.
On the Throwbacks podcast, Barkley addressed the skepticism surrounding Clark’s rise, stating, “I tell all those bitter, angry girls in the WNBA who are upset about Caitlin Clark to move over more because JuJu is special.” He praised Clark for her impact on women’s basketball over the past three years but emphasized Watkins’ potential, remarking, “Caitlin is a supernova and JuJu probably is a better player.” Although Watkins cannot enter the WNBA draft until she turns 22, Barkley’s enthusiasm signals anticipation for her entry into the league.
As the WNBA off-season begins, Clark is shifting gears to focus on golf, teaming up with 10-time Major winner Annika Sorenstam at The Annika Tournament. Despite the £2.5 million prize pool, Clark won’t be eligible to claim any winnings as celebrities are barred from receiving a share. Next season, the rising star will return to an expanded WNBA schedule, with the regular season extending from 40 to 44 games and a seven-game Finals series, reflecting the league’s growing popularity. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted this expansion, saying, “The league’s growth and increased demand for WNBA basketball made this the ideal time to expand the schedule, lengthen the Finals, and provide fans more opportunities to see the best players in the world compete at the highest level.”
