The conversation continues about whether Caitlin Clark and her pals are jealous.
While the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer has drawn historic ratings and attendance, the rookie phenom has been victim to some tough fouls and injuries, including a ruptured eardrum.
On top of that, there have been some disparaging remarks directed at her publicly and on social media since her WNBA debut.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE FOXNEWS.COM
Indiana Fever player Caitlin Clark speaks to the media during her induction press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 17, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
The debate includes whether race plays a role in her popularity and whether other players celebrate her struggles (although, to be fair, it has to do with players celebrating their own successes).
So WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said “The Today Show” Whether Clark felt he was being targeted by other players.
She refuted the allegations, saying it only seemed that way because the “spotlight” was on Clark.
Indiana Fever player Caitlin Clark, wearing number 22, watches the first quarter of a game against the Seattle Storm at Climate Pledge Arena on June 27, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
WNBA coach talks about Caitlin Clark’s foul-mouthed abilities
“Long-time fans know we have the best, biggest, most physically gifted players in the world,” Engelbert said. “What people don’t realize is [is] “There are over 200 NCAA Division I women’s college programs. There are 12 WNBA teams. So when you combine the talent, you have the best, biggest, most physical, really best players in the world. So I think there’s always an adjustment that every rookie has to make. I think this year’s rookie class is doing great, including Kaitlyn. She was the May rookie of the year.”
“It’s in the spotlight,” she added. “No league is built around one player. You see players, they get injured, other things happen. We’re selling all of our players, and I think Caitlin keeps everyone going.”
Clarke received the second-most votes in the first round of All-Star Game voting, behind A’ja Wilson.
Indiana Fever player Caitlin Clark, wearing number 22, poses for a photo during her introductory press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 17, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
Click here to get the FOX News app
She is averaging 16.2 points, 6.6 assists and 5.5 rebounds per game, and her last two games against Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky were the top two most-watched WNBA games of the past 20 years.
Follow Fox News Digital X’s sports coverage,subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle Newsletter.
