Caitlin Clark is having a wonderful rookie year after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft. The former Iowa Hawkeyes star’s popularity has continued to rise, and she is already an icon among women's basketball athletes in the U.S.
Since returning from the extended break due to the 2024 Paris Olympics, Clark has continued her dominance. She will most likely finish her debut season with the Indiana Fever as the WNBA Rookie of the Year.
However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as Clark’s insane popularity makes her one of the most profitable stars in the league right now. But what makes her so likable? Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Patrick Beverley recently provided an explanation for the same.
Pat Bev says Clark is relatable for fans
Most basketball athletes are freaks of nature. They have standout athletic abilities which they use to dominate on the court. But Beverley believes CC has a normal woman’s frame, and that’s what makes her relatable to fans.
Beverley shared his thoughts in a snippet from his podcast via X (formerly known as Twitter).
“ You can't compare her to Candace Parker, can't compare her to Maya Moore, can't compare her to A'ja Wilson," Beverley said . "You can't compare her to these women. She has a normal woman's frame. The everyday average woman is her height. Same with Steph Curry. It was no surprise why he was so relatable, why people loved him.”
While Clark stands at a respectable 6’0” with a 6’4” wingspan, she appears more like an everyday woman compared to the towering figures of players like Candace Parker at 6’4” and A’ja Wilson. Despite this, Clark has defied expectations, emerging as one of the league's top talents, mostly due to her otherworldly shootings.
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Does Clark deserve the WNBA ROTY award?
Unless you are living under a rock, the rivalry between Clark and Angel Reese must have reached you. The two electrifying rookies have had historical rookie seasons. On one hand, the Fever star’s scoring and playmaking are truly commendable.
However, Reese has made a strong case for herself to bring home the award, with her impressive rebounding stats sparking a debate over which rookie truly deserves the title. Former New York Knicks guard Raymond Felton even suggested a co-ROTY to resolve the discussion , and he might not be far from the truth.
With Clark averaging 18.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game and Reese posting 13.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, the ROTY race is too close to call, leaving voters with a tough decision.
Related: Caitlin Clark on WNBA teams chartering flights for their players this season: "It just makes life a lot easier for a lot of people"
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