Los Angeles Sparks head coach Curt Miller is among the many voices praising the incredible talent of rookie Caitlin Clark. Her standout performances have drawn comparisons to WNBA icons Sue Bird and Becky Hammon, showcasing her versatility and impact on the court. Recently, Clark delivered another remarkable triple-double, further solidifying her pivotal role in the Indiana Fever’s impressive six-game winning streak. Miller’s admiration for Clark’s abilities highlights her unique skill set, one that combines elements of both Bird’s pace and Hammon’s scoring precision.
Miller elaborated on the comparison, pointing out that in her prime, Sue Bird was known for playing at an exceptional speed, a quality that often went unappreciated. Similarly, Clark demonstrates this same sense of pace and control. When it comes to three-point shooting, Miller sees a resemblance to Hammon’s knack for sinking shots even when given little space. However, Clark’s 47.1% success rate from beyond the arc, often without any assists, sets her apart as a player capable of creating her own scoring opportunities in a league of her own.
Since returning from the Olympic break, Clark’s dominance on the court has been undeniable. She has secured consecutive Rookie of the Month awards and has twice been named Eastern Conference Player of the Week. Her remarkable averages of 24.3 points and 9 assists per game have lifted the Fever from a shaky 1-8 start to an impressive 16-8 record. Beyond her scoring abilities, Clark has also made her mark as a facilitator, leading the WNBA in assists with 8.4 per game and setting a new benchmark for double-doubles by a guard in a single season.
Miller’s excitement about Clark’s potential is clear, despite the rookie’s 5.5 turnovers per game. He acknowledges that much like Sue Bird in her early years, Clark still has room to grow and refine her game. Nevertheless, her impact on the league is already undeniable, and Miller believes her presence is a significant asset to the WNBA.
As the Fever continue their strong run, Caitlin Clark is proving to be one of the league’s brightest stars. Miller’s praise underscores the widespread recognition of her talents and the anticipation surrounding her future in professional basketball. The WNBA is fortunate to have a player of her caliber, and the best is yet to come.
