Caitlin Clark, the celebrated Rookie of the Year in the WNBA, experienced her initiation into the professional league not through the much-discussed body check by Chicago’s Chennedy Carter, but during a moment that has left a lasting impression on her.
It all took place during a game against the New York Liberty back in May.
A Moment to Remember
During that game, Clark encountered a significant challenge when Jonquel Jones set a formidable screen.
The force of the screen was so intense that it ruptured her eardrum.
In a recent interview with 60 Minutes, Clark recounted, “It was a really good screen by JJ. She’s a tremendous player. But I think that just kind of speaks to the physicality of the league.”
This moment, rather than her impressive triple-double performance in July, stands out to her.
“It’s a good story,” Clark noted, adding, “I think it’s something I’ll always remember.”
Facing the Physicality
Throughout the season, Clark faced numerous hard fouls, with some fans suggesting that rival players were intentionally targeting the top draft pick out of jealousy.
However, Clark has remained diplomatic, choosing not to blame anyone.
When asked about an incident where she was poked in the eye by DiJonai Carrington of the Connecticut Sun, she brushed off the suggestion that it was deliberate.
Even regarding the hip check from Carter, which had garnered significant attention, Carter remarked that no apology was necessary.
Understanding the Rookie Struggles
While Clark has shown a remarkable ability to endure the physical play, others have voiced concerns about her treatment on the court.
UConn coach Geno Auriemma weighed in, acknowledging the challenges of being a rookie while also suggesting that Clark is being singled out.
He drew parallels to the early careers of legends like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson, saying, “I don’t remember when those guys came into the league, guys looking to go out and beat them up.”
A Positive Shift in the League
Interestingly, Clark’s presence has brought a sense of excitement to the WNBA, as noted by Minnesota Lynx player Napheesa Collier.
When asked about the biggest change in the league this season, Collier enthusiastically responded, “People, which is what we want. It makes the game so, so fun.”
The WNBA has seen a significant increase in attendance, with an average of 9,807 fans per game in 2024, a marked rise from the previous season’s 6,615.
Record-Breaking Attendance
This surge in interest has translated into remarkable attendance figures.
Over the course of the season, 2,353,735 fans attended games, the highest in 22 years.
Notably, teams achieved 154 sellouts, a stark increase from just 45 in 2023.
Three games even attracted crowds of over 20,000, including a record-setting 20,711 fans during a Clark-led matchup against the Washington Mystics on September 19.
The Fever also set a new home attendance record with 340,715 fans this season, largely thanks to Clark’s influence on the game.
What’s Next for Clark and the WNBA?
With Caitlin Clark leading the charge, the WNBA is entering an exciting era, promising even greater growth and fan engagement.
As her rookie season progresses, the anticipation builds for what lies ahead, both for her and for the league as a whole.
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