In a drama-filled weekend for the WNBA, Caitlin Clark once again found herself at the center of controversy and debate, breaking records and turning critics into fuel for her ever-growing legend. On September 14, 2024, Clark dished out her 321st assist of the season, surpassing Alyssa Thomas’ record. But instead of receiving widespread applause, Clark was met with boos, as her incredible achievement drew both praise and jealousy.

This wasn’t the first time Clark faced such resistance. Her rise to stardom, which began with her standout performances in college, has drawn a mixed response from fans and even WNBA veterans. Most notably, players like Angel Reese and commentators like Cheryl Swoopes have expressed skepticism and criticism over the attention Clark receives. Despite Reese’s reluctance to address her after their matchup, it’s clear there’s a rivalry brewing that started back in the NCAA Championship game and has carried over into the pros.

In an interview, Reese, the LSU star and current Chicago Sky player, spoke about the intense spotlight Caitlin Clark has attracted in the basketball world. Reese, who has faced her own share of media attention, acknowledged that the dynamic between her and Clark has been ongoing for two years. Reese emphasized that it’s not just one player, like Clark, that’s elevating women’s basketball, but herself and others as well. Still, tensions remain, and many see Reese’s comments as a sign of frustration at the overwhelming focus on Clark.

Yet, for all the criticism Clark endures, she remains unfazed. She takes on the role of the “bad guy” with pride, saying she’ll gladly be the figure everyone talks about if it means advancing women’s basketball to new heights. Clark’s impact is undeniable — she’s not just breaking records; she’s reshaping the WNBA’s landscape. The Indiana Fever, a team that clinched its first playoff berth since 2016, has seen a massive surge in attendance thanks to Clark’s star power. The Fever’s average home attendance has soared from 1,800 to 17,000 this season — nearly ten times what it was just a few years ago.

But why is Clark, at just 22 years old, generating so much backlash? Many WNBA veterans and commentators view her meteoric rise as a threat. Cheryl Swoopes, a Hall of Famer and respected analyst, has consistently downplayed Clark’s abilities, questioning whether her flashy play style can sustain itself in the league. Swoopes even avoided mentioning Clark’s name in a recent podcast, a clear sign of the disruption Clark has caused.

The friction between veterans like Swoopes and rising stars like Clark reflects a deeper unease about the changing nature of the WNBA. As Clark shatters records, the league’s older generation grapples with how to reconcile her success with their own legacy. While Swoopes has been vocal about her doubts, other legends like Nancy Lieberman have recognized Clark’s influence, stepping in to replace Swoopes during broadcasts that highlight Clark’s performances.

Despite the controversy, Clark’s ability to perform under pressure has been nothing short of remarkable. Take her game against the Phoenix Mercury, where she scored 32 points and racked up 10 assists. In that game, Clark didn’t just play well — she made a statement, silencing critics with her sheer dominance.

The tension between Clark and Angel Reese, another young star in the league, has only added to the intrigue. Reese, who has gained a reputation for trash-talking and taunting Clark during games, has fueled a rivalry that fans are eagerly watching. Reese insists that people aren’t just tuning in to see Clark but also to see her. Yet, the rivalry has clearly impacted Reese, as she was ejected from a game just a day after making comments about Clark’s dominance.

As Clark continues to rack up achievements, she’s quickly cementing herself as one of the most impactful rookies the WNBA has ever seen. In just her first two seasons, she broke Maya Moore’s record for consecutive games scoring 30 or more points and became the fastest player in league history to reach 1,000 assists in only 75 games. These accomplishments are more than just individual milestones — they’re rewriting what’s possible in women’s basketball.

Clark’s arrival in the WNBA has brought more than just impressive stats. She’s revolutionizing the league’s popularity, attracting new fans and higher TV ratings. The doubleheader that kicked off this season drew over 1.5 million viewers, a record-breaking number for the WNBA. Her games are consistently must-see TV, and her endorsements already total a staggering $28 million — dwarfing the league’s max salary of $250,000.

Caitlin Clark isn’t just a player. She’s a force that’s pushing the WNBA to new heights. Whether she’s sparking rivalries with other stars like Angel Reese or facing down criticism from legends like Cheryl Swoopes, Clark’s ability to rise above the noise and continue her dominance on the court is reshaping the future of women’s basketball. Her legacy is just beginning, and as the WNBA continues to evolve, Caitlin Clark’s impact will be felt for years to come.