Paige Spiranac is “disappointed” but not “surprised” by the hate Caitlin Clark received from colleagues and veterans.
Appearing on X on Sunday night, the longtime golf influencer addressed a recent chat involving the Iowa State superstar. The Hawkeyes lost 87-75 to the South Carolina Gamecocks in Sunday’s national championship game, the final collegiate game of Clark’s career.
“The hatred towards Caitlin Clark from current and former players is disappointing but not surprising. Women preach that they will empower the next generation while at the same time being completely vicious towards other women.” I’ve seen it firsthand, but you have to remember that the tide lifts all boats.” Spiranac wrote to her almost 1 million followers.
Spiranac has frequently spoken out about the criticism he received from LPGA players during his transition from aspiring pro to full-time influencer.
“Some of them are really cool and I’ve known about them for a while,” Spiranac said in an Instagram Q&A last year. “Some people really don’t like the way I present myself and my game on social media. I hope this issue can be resolved as soon as possible because empowered women empower other women.” I am.”
Spiranac’s post, which has long dealt with detractors both on and off the course, was not meant to criticize anyone in particular, but follows recent comments from some in the sports world, including two-time WNBA champion Brianna Stewart. It was in response to
Stewart, a four-time All-American at UW, suggested Clark needs an NCAA title to cement her status as one of the all-time greats in women’s college hoops.
When asked, “Does Caitlin Clark need a championship to be considered one of the greats in the history of women’s college basketball?” Stewart answered, “Yes, she does. I think so too. ” he told SiriusXM’s Nicole Auerbach.
“If you look back 10 years ago, you’ll see all the records she broke and the points she scored and all that, but we all know that when you play college basketball, your goal is to win a national championship. That’s why you need it,” the two-time WNBA MVP continued.
Hall of Famer Lynette Woodard claimed Saturday that Clark did not break the major college basketball women’s leading scorer record earlier this year.
“I don’t think my record has been broken, because you can’t replicate what can’t be replicated,” said Woodard, who played at the University of Kansas. “Unless you bring men’s basketball and two-point shooting.”
Woodard addressed his remarks Sunday. in an instagram post“No one respects Caitlin Clark’s accomplishments more than I do. This is why I accepted Iowa State’s invitation to participate in Caitlin’s Senior Day. My message is that many things on and off the court has changed, making it difficult to compare statistical achievements from different eras. Each is a snapshot in time. Caitlin holds the scoring record. I respect her. I look forward to supporting her throughout the rest of her career.”
Although Clark didn’t win a championship title Sunday, he is forever grateful to be in a Hawkeyes uniform as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.
“Words cannot express my love for my teammates, coaches, fans, and university. Thank you for making my dream come true. It has been an honor to wear Iowa on my heart for the past four years. Here I am. is always home,” Clark posted on X on Sunday night.
Clark, who is expected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, will WNBA icon Sue Bird praises South Carolina coach Dawn Staley “has elevated our sport.”
“She’s carried a lot of weight for our sport. It won’t stop on the college tour, but if she becomes the No. 1 draft pick in the WNBA, she’ll lift the league up as well. ” Staley said. Clark’s third national title.
Spiranac, 31, found Staley’s postgame comments “supportive and kind.”
“Caitlyn has handled all this attention and pressure with great grace, and it was nice to see Staley acknowledge her influence.” she wrote to x.
This year’s WNBA Draft will be held on April 15th, and the Indiana Fever holds the No. 1 overall pick.
