NBA legend Sheryl Swoopes downplays Indiana Fevers star Caitlin Clark’s stats in her rookie season, saying those are not ‘dominating’ enough.

Sheryl Swoopes criticizes Caitlin Clark (image via NBA)

 

Since making her WNBA debut, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has proven herself, despite a slow start. After the All-Star break, Clark has been delivering monstrous stat lines that have left fans in awe. Statistically, she is on track to have one of the best rookie seasons in WNBA history. While many have expressed their respect and admiration for Clark in recent months, Sheryl Swoopes has been one of her most vocal critics.

Recently, Sheryl Swoopes made her appearance as a guest on the Gils Arena podcast. On the show, the panel discussed the stats Caitlin Clark has had in her rookie season. Swoopes heavily downplayed Clark’s rookie stats and further stated that it’s not dominating the league.

Co-host Rashad McCants then asked if Clark would be considered dominating if she put up numbers like A’ja Wilson, to which Swoopes answered affirmatively.

 

Those are hell of a numbers, but to me that's not dominating.

Sheryl Swoopes via Gils Arena

Many fans didn’t agree with Swoopes’ take and felt she wasn’t supporting the great talent of Clark. As a rookie, Clark has averaged 19.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game. While these numbers are great, they are still lower than that of Wilson who averaged 27.0 points, 12.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. Wilson is one of the strong contenders in the MVP race. Even as a rookie, many WNBA fans have started to compare Clark to A’ja Wilson.

Swoopes does not consider Caitlin Clark’s 19.5 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 8.4 APG this season to be “dominant”

She is the only player in WNBA history to average those numbers or better pic.twitter.com/VM1i5CayNL

— Clark Report (@CClarkReport) September 17, 2024

Clark has led the Indiana Fevers to the playoffs after a big playoffs drought. The Indiana Fever with Clark are one of the strong contenders for the championship this season. Clark is also a lock for the Rookie of the Year with Angel Reese suffering a season ending injury.

Caitlin Clark scored her career high against Dallas Wings

Throughout her rookie season, fans have witnessed Caitlin Clark break records and set new milestones in the WNBA. Recently, the Indiana Fevers rookie set another milestone.

 

On Sunday the Indiana Fever went up against the Dallas Wings. Although Clark started the game slowly, she quickly shifted gears once the second quarter began and began dominating the game, as she always does.

 

She set a new career high by scoring 35 points in the game. Additionally, she broke Seimone Augustus‘ record for the most points scored in a rookie season. Clark also contributed eight assists and three steals during the game, showcasing her all-around skills on the court.

Clark’s teammate Kelsey Mitchell also showcased her formidable force on the court, providing great scoring help to the team alongside Clark. Mitchell scored 30 points, contributing to the duo of Clark and Mitchell combining for a total of 65 points. Their performance has solidified their reputation as one of the most dominant duos in the league today.