Heckled, even pushed around by his opponents, but also excluded from Team USA for the Olympic Games, Caitlin Clark is experiencing a less idyllic start to his professional career than expected. Certainly, her over-media coverage benefits the WNBA, and has already allowed her personally to land huge contracts, but the Fever player also has to deal with pressure and expectations unknown for a basketball player.
For Steve Kerr, this situation reminds him of what Stephen Curry experienced. “I think it’s a must in the NBA as in the WNBA. The others will test you, and actually, Caitlin reminds me a lot of Steph Curry.” explains the Warriors coach. “A lot of people may not remember this, but in her first two years, Steph was not a superstar. He wasn't what he is today. He had to become stronger, he had to understand that people were coming after him. That's what's happening with Caitlin right now. »
The notable difference is that Stephen Curry, when he arrived in the NBA, was not a phenomenon like Caitlin Clark and that there were much fewer expectations around him. Regardless, Steve Kerr remains convinced that this is all healthy, and like Adam Silver, he believes that the Fever star is having her “Welcome To The WNBA” moment.
“I think it remains within the framework of the competition. She behaves very well. She's an extraordinary player, but like all college players who get to the WNBA or NBA, it takes time.” he continues. “They have to become stronger, get used to the contact, the physical dimension, the athletic qualities. She'll get through this, and everything she's going through right now is part of being a professional player.”
