The WNBA is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, largely thanks to the wave of talented players joining the league. Caitlin Clark’s talented game has caught the attention of basketball fans, including Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who believes her presence has contributed to the heightened interest in the WNBA.
While speaking with JJ Redick on the “Mind the Game” podcast, Lebron James weighed on Caitlin Clark and Indiana Fever losing their first four games but also took the time to give Clark some advice on how to handle the losses. “The one thing that I love that she is bringing to her sport: more people want to watch, more people want to tune in, James said. “Don’t get it twisted, don’t get it f—ed up: Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things are going to happen for the WNBA.”
RELATED: investigation Launched After LeBron James Is Compared To Monkey In Racist Poster Displayed At Upstate New York School Art Show
Given his own experiences with early fame and expectations, LeBron James is well-versed in handling the spotlight and pressure faced by young athletes. In light of this, the Lakers star shared some valuable advice for Caitlin Clark as she tackles her professional journey. “My advice to Caitlin, and my advice to anyone that comes in with this level of notoriety, out-of-this-world expectation, whatever the case may be: Be a horse, man. The Kentucky Derby,” James said. “Put your blinders on, go to work, show up to work, punch your clock in, prepare yourself, work on your game, work on your craft.
“Kind of keep your mouth shut and just learn from the vets. When they ask, voice your opinion if they want your opinion early because everybody is looking for you to say anything and they’re gonna splice it and cut it and make it a negative thing.”
RELATED: LeBron James Becomes The First NBA Player In History To Score 40,000 Career Points
Clark has faced a steep learning curve as the Fever have struggled with a winless 0-4 start this season. Despite the team’s challenges, Clark has showcased her talent by averaging 17.0 points and 5.5 assists in the four games, with a 34.3% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.