The Caitlin Clark hate is already played out

The whispers started early. Could her college dominance translate to the pros? Is her style too flashy for the WNBA? Is she more hype than substance? Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s prized rookie, has faced a chorus of doubts since stepping onto the hardwood. But for those watching closely, it’s clear that Clark isn’t just silencing the critics — she’s redefining the game. Let’s be real: the WNBA is a different beast than college ball. The pace is different, the competition fiercer and the spotlight brighter. Rookies often struggle to find their footing. This is what Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi was trying to convey prior to Clark entering the league. Despite this, Clark embraced the challenge with a fire in her eyes that was impossible to ignore. Her stats may not be eye-popping yet, but her impact is undeniable. Home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse are electric with sellout crowds roaring their approval. Fever merchandise is flying off the shelves. And perhaps most importantly, a new generation of young girls in Indiana (and across the globe) are seeing themselves represented on the court — a fearless competitor who plays with joy and grit despite the naysayers. Clark’s influence isn’t limited...