Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark has garnered plenty of attention in her debut WNBA season, but one of her most vocal supporters lately has been Hall of Fame guard Nancy Lieberman. The former WABA MVP and former Sacramento Kings assistant coach has been a steadfast defender of Clark amid criticism, even going so far as to say her friendship with WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes ended due to their disagreement over Clark’s impact on the league.
Lieberman, who recently compared Clark to NBA legend Michael Jordan, has now made an even bolder statement, likening the 22-year-old rookie to none other than global pop sensation Taylor Swift.
“It doesn’t matter who people are cheering for right now,” Lieberman said during an interview with SiriusXM NBA Radio. “It’s Caitlin Clark. She’s the Taylor Swift of women’s basketball at this point. Her fans are like Swifties — fiercely loyal. Everywhere she plays, half the crowd is there to see her, wearing her jersey. She’s not just a media superstar; she’s backed it up on the court every step of the way.”
Lieberman’s comparison isn’t far-fetched when you consider Clark’s meteoric rise in the WNBA. Clark has shattered records for television ratings, merchandise sales, and attendance in her first year with the Fever. She’s drawn massive crowds at both home and away games, with many arenas filled with fans sporting her jersey, creating an atmosphere that mirrors Swift’s sold-out concerts.
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This growing fanbase has sparked some frustration from opposing players, who’ve noted that Clark often seems to have more supporters in their arenas than they do. But Clark has taken it all in stride, continuing to deliver stellar performances game after game.
In August, Clark’s dominance was officially recognized when she was named both the WNBA Player of the Month and Rookie of the Month, thanks to her impressive averages of 24.5 points, nine assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game since the Olympic break.
A noted Taylor Swift fan herself, Clark seems to be embracing her role as the “Swift” of the WNBA, captivating crowds and making waves in every aspect of the game.
Lieberman’s bold comparison highlights the cultural crossover between sports and entertainment, underscoring Clark’s growing influence both on and off the court.