The rise of women’s basketball in America has been fueled in large part by former Iowa guard Caitlin Clark, whose popularity, along with that of others such as Angel Reese, helped drive tremendous viewership to the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. Clark has subsequently been drafted to the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, and the pressure she is under is unprecedented. But one person has: Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James.
Like Clark, LeBron entered the NBA with an insane level of popularity and expectation, as many anticipated him to dominate right away. Clark has struggled with the transfer to the professional level, which has resulted in some criticism and outright ludicrous recommendations, but LeBron isn’t having any of it.
In the most recent episode of his Mind The Game podcast with JJ Redick, James discussed Clark, stating that she is going to make some fantastic things happen for the WNBA and that he hopes she ignores all of the hatred and just goes out and has fun:
“The one thing I appreciate about what she’s bringing to her sport is that more people want to watch. More folks want to tune in. Don’t get it twisted, don’t get it f—- up; Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of amazing things are going to happen in the WNBA. However, I believe she should not become involved in anything that is being stated. Just go have fun and enjoy. But I’m rooting for Caitlin because I’ve been in her position before. I’ve been down that route before. I hope she nails it, Aliyah Boston performs awesome, and they all do well.
“You know, I’m just sort of in this mindset right now because I’m seeing my 19-year-old son face a lot of anger and vitriol from people when he’s just a kid trying to live his dream. Only a small proportion of men and women manage to realize their dream of playing professional sports. And we’ve got grown men and women out here trying everything they can to prevent it from happening. That is the strangest thing in the world, but it is what it is, and I’m delighted Caitlin has a strong head on her shoulders.”
There aren’t many people who can identify to Clark on this level, but James is one of them, and the Lakers star makes some valid points. Clark is living her dreams, and it is simply unfair for many people to try to bring them down.
The growth of social media has enabled many people to speak and broadcast terrible things without fear of repercussions. Finally, Clark should avoid giving such people her energy and instead focus on following her aspirations and being the best player she can be.
All alternatives remain on the table regarding LeBron James’ Lakers contract status.
While Caitlin Clark will be managing her business in the WNBA, LeBron James still has his own career to consider and some significant decisions to make this offseason.
James may either opt into the final year of his contract with the Lakers or opt out and become an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team in the league, or just re-sign with the Lakers on a new deal.
According to the newest rumours, LeBron will consider all of these choices as the offseason begins and the deadline for him to make a decision approaches.
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