Caitlin Clark’s exceptional performance in just one half of a WNBA season has already garnered comparisons to some of the all-time greats.
Clark is exceeding expectations in her first year with the Indiana Fever, leading all rookies in points scored and assists per game.
Caitlin Clark’s Comparison To All-Time WNBA Greats: Too Early or Right on Time?
Clark was slightly ahead of Chicago’s Angel Reese in the Rookie of the Year race until she made history on Sunday, becoming the first-ever WNBA rookie to achieve a triple-double. This remarkable feat occurred in a win against the top-ranked New York Liberty, solidifying her position as a standout player.
PHOENIX, AZ – JUNE 30: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever and Diana Taurasi #3 of the Phoenix Mercury smile during the game on June 30, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images)
Clark’s early career success has drawn comparisons to legends like 21-year veteran and three-time WNBA champion Diana Taurasi.
Reflecting on Sunday’s win, Fever coach Christie Sides made a case for Clark as Rookie of the Year and compared her to Taurasi.
Sides emphasized Clark’s competitiveness and relentless drive to win, likening her to the iconic Taurasi.
Despite Taurasi’s extensive career achievements, Clark has displayed the potential to reach and even surpass Taurasi’s level of greatness.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – JULY 6: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever looks on during the game against the New York Liberty on July 6, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
As Clark continues to excel, the debate over her comparison to Taurasi intensifies, with some questioning the validity of such a parallel.
The Vet vs. The Rookie Is WNBA Box Office
Not only is Clark performing exceptionally well on the court, but she is also captivating fans with her entertaining style of play, drawing record crowds to WNBA games.
Despite initial predictions of a learning curve for Clark from Taurasi, the rookie’s rapid ascension in the league has sparked widespread excitement and debate over her potential.
With upcoming matchups between Clark’s Fever and Taurasi’s Mercury, the anticipation for their on-court rivalry continues to grow.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – JUNE 30: Guard Diana Taurasi #3 of the Phoenix Mercury drives against guard Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever during the fourth quarter at Footprint Center on June 30, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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