Caitlin Clark has taken the WNBA by storm, emerging as one of the league’s biggest stars in her rookie season, and her impact hasn’t gone unnoticed by her teammates. Players like NaLyssa Smith and Kelsey Mitchell have expressed deep appreciation for everything Clark has done for the league, with both offering glowing praise for the young point guard’s ability to elevate the WNBA’s profile.
Their admiration stands in stark contrast to recent remarks made by WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes, who has continuously downplayed Clark’s influence, sparking tension in the basketball community.
Swoopes, a Hall of Famer and former face of the WNBA, has made it clear that she’s not on board the Caitlin Clark hype train. Her latest comments, which suggest that many players on the Indiana Fever are unhappy due to the “drama” surrounding Clark’s growing celebrity, have caused quite a stir. However, these claims have been met with strong opposition from those within the Fever’s locker room, who argue that Swoopes’ assertions are not only untrue but also part of a pattern of unwarranted criticism.
Erica Wheeler, one of Indiana’s veteran leaders, recently took a stand against Swoopes’ negative portrayal of the team dynamics. Wheeler emphasized that the locker room is cohesive, and any supposed drama is more a product of outside voices like Swoopes than any internal discord.
Following Wheeler’s defense, NaLyssa Smith and Kelsey Mitchell echoed similar sentiments during post-game interviews on Thursday night, making it clear that Clark’s presence is not a burden but a blessing for the franchise.
RELATED: WNBA Legend Sheryl Swoopes Continues to Minimize Caitlin Clark’s Impact
On the night of their game against the Washington Mystics, Clark’s star power was on full display. The Mystics moved the matchup from their typical home arena to the larger Capital One Arena, home to the NHL’s Capitals and the NBA’s Wizards. The result? A record-breaking crowd of 20,711 fans packed the venue, a clear indicator of Clark’s draw. Fans flooded the stands in Fever and Iowa jerseys, sometimes outnumbering those in support of the Mystics. It was obvious that Clark was a key factor in drawing such a large crowd.
Kelsey Mitchell, a standout player in her own right, acknowledged the undeniable effect Clark has had on boosting the WNBA’s visibility. Mitchell expressed her gratitude for the increased attention, noting that the influx of new fans is a testament to Clark’s magnetism. “It’s exciting,” Mitchell said. “We want to perform well for these new fans. They’re watching because of Caitlin, but it’s an opportunity for all of us to showcase what we can do.”
NaLyssa Smith, whom Swoopes had indirectly suggested was unhappy playing in Indiana, firmly refuted that narrative. Smith emphasized that Clark’s arrival has only enhanced the experience for her and her teammates. “We’ve always dreamed of playing in sold-out arenas, and Caitlin has helped make that a reality,” Smith shared. “It’s not just about her; it’s about what she’s done for all of us by raising the profile of the league.” Smith’s appreciation for Clark underscores how much the Fever, and the WNBA as a whole, value what Clark brings to the table.
While Smith’s and Mitchell’s gratitude reflects their personal experiences, it’s clear that they are not alone. Clark’s influence is felt league-wide, as she attracts fans, sponsors, and media attention that has significantly raised the profile of the WNBA. Her presence is giving her teammates, and players across the league, the chance to shine on a larger stage, fulfilling dreams they’ve had since childhood.
Sheryl Swoopes’ suggestion that playing alongside Caitlin Clark would make her teammates want to leave simply doesn’t align with reality. Instead, Clark’s star power is creating opportunities that might not have been possible before. For the Fever players, sharing the court with Clark is helping them live out their dreams in front of record-breaking crowds, something they are deeply appreciative of.
In the end, while Swoopes continues to offer her critiques, Clark’s teammates are focused on the opportunities and excitement that come with playing alongside one of the game’s most electrifying talents.
For them, Clark isn’t a source of tension—she’s a driving force behind their shared success.
