Sheryl Swoopes critiques Caitlin Clark’s rookie season performance

Sheryl Swoopes, a WNBA Hall of Famer, recently discussed Caitlin Clark's performance during her rookie season on the "Gil’s Arena" podcast. While acknowledging Clark's impressive statistics, including an average of 19.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game, Swoopes expressed that she does not consider Clark's performance to be 'dominating.' Swoopes had previously stated that both Clark and fellow rookie Angel Reese would not dominate immediately upon entering the league, a sentiment she reiterated during the podcast. Despite Clark's record-setting achievements, such as the most single-season assists in WNBA history and a record of 19 assists in a single game, Swoopes believes that it takes time for players to adjust to the professional level. She emphasized that her comments were not a critique of Clark's talent but rather an observation about the transition from college to professional basketball. Swoopes faced criticism for her earlier remarks about Clark's college success, where she referred to Clark as a '25-year-old playing against 20-year-olds.' During a recent X Spaces event, Swoopes acknowledged that her phrasing may have been inappropriate but maintained that she does not owe an apology for her views. In conclusion, while Swoopes recognizes Clark's potential and skill, she remains firm in her belief that true dominance in the WNBA requires more than impressive statistics, highlighting the challenges rookies face in adapting to the league's competitive environment.