When former Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark entered the WNBA this season as the Indiana Fever's first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, many expected her to struggle with the transition to the professional level. While she absolutely shredded defenses in the NCAA, the WNBA is an entirely different beast.
Early in the season, critics relished being right as the 6-foot guard struggled to make shots and lead her team as the Fever slumped to a 1-8 record. Opposing players seemingly had their way with Caitlin, overwhelming her aggressive and physical defense. However, as the season went on, something changed.
Caitlin Clark adapted to the physicality and speed of the WNBA, proving she is more than capable of holding her own against some of the best players in the world. In fact, it now seems that other players are struggling to keep up with her dynamic scoring abilities.
Caitlin has found her comfort level
According to former NBA champion and sports commentator Kendrick Perkins, Clark has found her comfort level in the WNBA and has earned her teammates' trust, resulting in fluid and cohesive play on the court.
Her ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has made her a valuable asset to the Fever. She has undoubtedly established herself as the league's top rookie and one of its best players, averaging 24.3 points and 8.9 assists since the Olympic break.
"Right now, she's very comfortable. And you know what? That's kudos to her because that means not only has she been putting in the work behind the scenes, but it also means she's been a student of the game, in the film room," Perk said on NBA Today. "When you're in that position—a point guard position—and you're leading the charge, you have to figure things out."
Adjusted to the league's physicality
One major adjustment rookies often have difficulty getting used to is the intense physicality. There's nothing like veterans welcoming highly-touted rookies with a forearm shiver or a hard screen. This was certainly the case for Clark, who has received her fair share of flagrant fouls from opposing players. However, rather than get riled up, she gets up, dusts herself off, and continues playing her game without backing down.
"All I was hearing was, 'Oh, it's going to be an adjustment for Caitlin Clark. She's going to have to get used to the physicality. People are going to be going at her.' And they tried it, and it didn't work. Here she is right now, breaking all kinds of records. Here she is right now, leading her team into the postseason. Here she is right now, standing on business," Kendrick emphasized.
Caitlin entered the WNBA with plenty of hype, especially after her record-breaking senior season in the NCAA. Despite the hype and elevated expectations, she has remained focused on playing superb basketball for the Fever, and her play has been vital in leading Indiana to its first playoff berth in eight years.
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