The media or the WNBA treating Caitlin Clark unfairly? Well, that was the sentiment last season, as the Fever rookies’ contribution to the league was not appreciated enough. The team had a 265% attendance uptick, plus a 1,000% increase in team store sales. But is there jealousy prevalent against CC? TV host Rachael De Mita feels so, especially after the latest rankings, which put the Hawkeyes alum at #5. So, what are the rankings and who could have the ROTY 2024 replaced?
The rankings in question are from Bleacher Report and their Top 20 WNBA players list. Naturally, any list would bring in debate, especially if it involves Caitlin Clark. In the list, A’ja Wilson takes the number 1 spot, followed by Naphasea Collier, Breanna Stewart, and Alyssa Thomas. The first three names made sense for De Mita since that was also the order of MVP voting from the WNBA. But in that category, it was CC who was 4th, and now BR has had her 5, which is a head-scratcher for the national broadcaster.
She called the decision “crazy”. “I don’t know how she slides down into the number five spot, especially behind Alyssa Thomas. Because Alyssa Thomas is a veteran getting older in this league, and Caitlin Clark is only going into her second season.” The content created said on her YouTube Channel. But the BR rankings stated “If the defense or ball security doesn’t improve” the real reason for CC’ being placed number 5, which De Mita did not like and is tired of hearing.
“As much as people harp on Caitlin about turnovers and not having any rings, I just want to take this mic and bang it against my head…” The 34-year-old highlighted that the Fever have added a considerable amount of defensive players to their roster. More importantly, it is Caitlin Clark who is well rested after the WNBA season, which will prove to be a differentiating factor.
Do the numbers favor the Fever superstar Caitlin Clark?
First, let’s discuss the top 3 players on the list. Las Vegas Aces superstar A’ja Wilson was the 2024 WNBA MVP and led the WNBA in scoring, blocks, player efficiency rating, and win shares. Next, the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year and Minnesota Lynx standout Napheesa Collier. Her Unrivaled co-owner Breanna Stewart completes the top 3 as she led the team to the Finals and a trophy.
Chicago, USA, June 23, 2024: Caitlin Clark 22 Indiana Fever speaks with Aliyah Boston 7 Indiana Fever during the game between the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever on Sunday June 23, 2024 at Wintrust Arena, Chicago, USA. NO COMMERCIAL USAGE Shaina Benhiyoun/SPP PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxBRAxMEX Copyright: xShainaxBenhiyoun/SPPx spp-en-ShBe-8P6A8511
In terms of numbers, Alyssa Thomas averaged 10.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, 7.9 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.5 blocks. Fever superstar Caitlin Clark had 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 8.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.7 blocks. But for the Connecticut Sun, Thomas played all the roles effectively. From being the ball-handler to scoring and also earned the playoff victory over the Indiana Fever.
However, this upcoming season it is the Mercury who will have the services of Thomas. So an entirely new team for the 5x All-Star to work her magic with and win the championship, which has eluded her for the longest time. In terms of Clark, she showed her potential in her rookie season with little to no break. Now that she has had a full off-season, the expectations certainly improve.
The post Caitlin Clark Sidelined by Unfair Treatment as National Analyst’s Bold Stance Turns 5x WNBA All-Star Into a Victim appeared first on EssentiallySports.
