WNBA veteran Diana Taurasi is taking a supportive approach when discussing Caitlin Clark these days.
During the NCAA Women’s March Madness tournament, Taurasi predicted that Clark and other college basketball standouts would face challenges transitioning to the WNBA.
“Reality is coming; there are levels to this thing,” Taurasi said. “You look superhuman playing against some 18-year-olds, but you’re going to come play with some grown women who have been playing professional basketball for a long time. I’m not saying it’s not going to translate. When you’re great at what you do, you’re just going to get better. But there is going to be a transition period where you have to give some grace as a rookie. It may take a little bit longer for some people.”
In the first few games of the WNBA season, Clark has struggled, leading fans to praise Taurasi’s foresight.
On Friday, Taurasi appeared on Arizona Sports’ Bickley & Marotta radio show to discuss Clark’s struggles, expressing confidence that the Indiana Fever star will eventually adapt.
“You know these days, everything takes a life of its own,” Taurasi said. “Every little snippet, every little comment, any quote taken out of context. Look, I only said it because when I watch games—and I’m sure when you talk to any professional athlete—you think about what they’ll look like as a pro. How will it translate? It’s going to translate. Like any college quarterback, it’s going to take time.”
Taurasi also shared some words of encouragement for Clark, affirming her belief in Clark’s potential to succeed.Once Clark becomes more comfortable in the WNBA, she will start playing like her true self.
