Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are magical, but WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes has reservations about what life will be like early on in their pro careers.
Swoopes, considered WNBA royalty, is a four-time WNBA champion, a three-time MVP, and a six-time WNBA All-Star, to name a few. When you’ve hooped that much in your career, you likely watch a lot of ball off the court, including up-and-coming hoopers like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Swoopes was asked about both players during a recent appearance on Gil’s Arena with former NBA player Gilbert Arenas. In a clip posted to social media, she can be seen giving her thoughts on Angel Reese before sharing what she thought about Caitlin Clark. Her comments about Reese didn’t appear to ruffle many feathers, but her thoughts on Clark have hoops fans buzzing.
“Will Caitlin Clark come into the WNBA and do what she is doing right now? Immediately, absolutely not.”
Sheryl Swoopes says Caitlin Clark will not walk right into the WNBA and dominate. pic.twitter.com/2OuMxcJI63
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) January 31, 2024
Sheryl Swoopes says the WNBA will NOT be an easy transition for Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/R3WN36yDop
— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) January 31, 2024
Fans on social media had strong feelings about Swoopes’ analysis. Those feelings turned into backlash, forcing Swoopes to make a statement.
Here’s the thing: Swoopes is not wrong for her thoughts. They’re her thoughts.
But people quickly forget that Kelsey Plum issued a warning in December 2023 when the hype started building about Clark breaking her scoring record this season. Her words were about having compassion for Clark and not forgetting there is a person behind that record. Plum also warned that the transition to the pros can be challenging. That’s what Swoopes is alluding to with her comments.
Clark is fantastic, but the WNBA is undoubtedly tougher. The talent and stakes are much higher, and Clark will have to be a much more efficient shooter and have crisper defense. If she can hone in on those things, she might have a Rookie of the Year award with her name on it.
