Former NFL quarterback Cam Newton, familiar with the weight of high expectations from his days as a top draft pick and a national champion at Auburn, recently shared some advice for Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 pick of the 2024 WNBA draft.
Newton’s comments followed a heated moment on the court between Clark and Chicago Sky guard Chennedy Carter, who knocked Clark to the ground after a verbal altercation.
Reflecting on his own experiences in professional sports, Newton remarked, “Why are we acting as if she’s America’s sweetheart in a league that’s like a jungle filled with hyenas, lions, tigers, and bears? Everyone is coming after you to try to dethrone you, trying to get in your head—mentally, physically, emotionally. And this is just an example of that. Nobody is above getting checked or being disliked. So, Caitlin, welcome to the big leagues. Everybody ain’t gonna like you.”
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Newton further emphasized the reality of professional sports, indicating that Clark must adapt to her new environment. “Everybody not gon’ like the fact that you are as young as you are and you’re the face of the WNBA. They’re not gonna like the fact that Nike just dropped a big boy bag on you. So, yeah…what did Steve Smith say? You gotta ice up, son.”
Newton’s candid advice highlights the challenges and competitive nature of professional leagues, suggesting Clark should brace for and navigate the pressures and rivalries she will face.
