During a recent interview on the Pat McAfee Show, New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart addressed rumors and issues surrounding WNBA rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The talk shed light on the idea that existing stars of the game may hate the attention these young players are receiving. When McAfee playfully asked, “Do you hate her? That is what I heard. Stewart swiftly denied the claim that “everyone hates her,” referring to Caitlin Clark.
“No way,” she responded, expressing her support for the league’s newcomers.
Stewart continued on her position, emphasizing the great influence Clark and Reese have had on the WNBA. The Liberty recently bet Clark and the Indiana Fever 91-80 on May 18. They are set to
Face them again. Sunday. “I’m glad she’s in this league, certainly. I’m pleased that she, along with Angel Reese, has brought in a large number of new followers and will continue to do so,” added Stewart. “To be at the Fever game, and the game to be sold out like that, I’m not sure if every single one after has been sold out but I know it’s been close.”
The Liberty forward acknowledged the adjustment phase that comes with transferring from college to professional basketball, which she and other veterans have faced.
“She’s going to turn into a really, really, great pro, but also people need to give her a little bit of time to be up and down and kind of figure it out,” Stewart said regarding Clark. “But as you can see her last game (against the Los Angeles Sparks) she had like 30 points and she’s starting to get more comfortable.”
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Finding Their Footing in the League
Clark, who is presently averaging 17.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game, has encountered criticism as she transitions to the professional level. Similarly, Reese averages 11 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. Both players have received great attention, not only for their performances on the court, but also
McAfee’s intriguing question to Stewart addressed a larger issue in the WNBA: the perception of conflict between seasoned players and young stars. The idea has been fuelled by several media outlets and social media conversations leading up to the 2024 season, implying a generational divide among players. The adjustment phase for rookies like Clark and Reese is a frequently discussed topic among WNBA veterans, and as a result, some have accused Diana Taurasi of jealousy. Meanwhile, Taurasi and other experienced players have highlighted that the conversation is less about jealousy and more about the unavoidable growing pains that come with transitioning to a professional league.
The transition from college to the WNBA requires adjusting to a faster tempo, more intense competition, and different team dynamics. Stewart’s urging to allow young athletes time to develop highlights the complexities of this move.
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