How NBA Legends Are Reacting to Caitlin Clark’s Impact on Women’s Basketball
Caitlin Clark has set the women’s basketball world ablaze. With a shooting range few can rival—drawing instant comparisons to NBA superstar Stephen Curry—her explosive style and transcendent popularity have changed the conversation around the WNBA. But perhaps even more telling than her on-court stats is the growing chorus of NBA legends who have weighed in, many with admiration, some with sharp critiques of her treatment by the league and media. What these former superstars are saying is rewriting the narrative around women’s hoops and Clark’s own meteoric rise.
Caitlin Clark’s Curry-Like Brilliance
No college basketball player, male or female, has brought the “long ball” revolution to the sport like Caitlin Clark. NBA veterans see it. “If you ain’t doing the Steph Curry, you going to be behind,” says one former pro. Clark’s fearless, 30-foot bombs and regular deep threes are revolutionizing women’s basketball in the same way Curry’s did for the NBA. Her showmanship, quick release, and ability to turn every game into a spectacle have fans and ex-players in awe.
NBA greats are quick to point out that while other WNBA stars have flashed this type of shooting, Clark is doing it at volume, consistently, and in the spotlight. What’s more, her impact is not just confined to highlight reels but is reflected at the ticket office and TV ratings too.
Defending Clark: The Veterans Speak Out
Clark’s arrival in the WNBA brought record attention, and not all of it has been positive. NBA Hall of Famer Rick Barry blasted those who target Clark with rough physical play. “It’s reprehensible what they’re allowing…anybody that does something flagrant to this young lady…should be suspended and fined big time,” Barry declared. He connects much of the criticism of Clark to jealousy and a fear of being overshadowed.
NBA legend George Gervin, another to speak in her defense, points out that Clark has brought money and visibility to everyone in the league. “They flying private planes now…and on major networks. She reminds me of Tiger Woods for golf,” Gervin notes, emphasizing that the whole league is benefiting from Clark’s stardom, even if some can’t admit it.
Former All-Star Jeff Teague, now free from media obligations, leveled criticism at the WNBA’s cold reception for their new star. “When y’all leave college women’s sports, it’s cuz y’all hating on the best thing that’s going to happen to the W,” he said bluntly. Teague argues the WNBA mishandled Clark’s arrival and that hostility towards her is costing the league, both on the court and at the box office.
Mixed Messages: Respect and Reluctance
Not all feedback has been unreservedly glowing. Celtics legend Paul Pierce argued that Clark’s Olympic snub was a missed marketing opportunity, suggesting she should have been selected for her popularity as much as her skill. However, implicit in Pierce’s comments is a doubt about whether she’s earned a Team USA spot on merit—a hesitance echoed by some other media figures.
Reggie Miller, Indiana Pacers icon, also downplayed claims of jealousy, instead emphasizing the league’s competitive reality. “You’re playing at the highest level…You’re playing against grown women…What did she expect was going to happen?” Miller said, urging Clark and her fans not to be shocked by the WNBA’s physical welcome for rookies.
Shaq, Dwight, and Magic: Counseling and Counsel
Some NBA superstars have taken a more nuanced view, both praising Clark and advising patience. Shaquille O’Neal, who openly admits to being a “hater” turned believer, told Angel Reese herself he was blown away by Clark’s ability to silence doubters with constant clutch shooting, essentially anointing her as a true star.
Dwight Howard provided a different kind of encouragement after her Olympic omission: “This should motivate her…she should get in better shape.” In his view, time away from headline events is an opportunity for Clark to hone her game and plot her path to dominance.
Magic Johnson, part-owner of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, drew parallels to his storied rivalry with Larry Bird. He argues that while Clark isn’t the league’s best player yet, neither was he or Bird as rookies. Magic sees patience, support, and the fiery competition among rookies like Clark and Angel Reese as the ingredients for a new era in women’s basketball.
Barkley, Thomas, and Garnett: Candid Criticism of the League and Media
Charles Barkley, never one to sugarcoat his opinions, lambasted both WNBA players and the media. “Y’all petty girls…I expect men to be petty cuz we’re the most insecure group in the world. Y’all should be thanking that girl for getting y’all private charters, all the money and visibility she’s bringing.”
Barkley also criticized television pundits for fanning the flames of controversy for ratings, noting, “People believe what we say on television. Just because people don’t like you or your personality, they can’t get on TV and slander you… this girl is incredible.”
Isaiah Thomas agrees that controversy sells, and the focus on Clark’s challenges sometimes distracts from her accomplishments. Meanwhile, Kevin Garnett views the adversity Clark is facing as a rite of passage: “When you got the Bulls eye, it’s going to come with some…take it as respect.”
The Ultimate Seal of Approval: Michael Jordan and Steph Curry
When Michael Jordan lends his voice to a conversation, the basketball world listens. MJ reportedly said, “The WNBA owes Caitlin a lot for what she’s done for the game,” calling for better officiating and more respect for her on and off the court. Jordan’s recognition sends a strong message: Clark is not just a marketing phenomenon; she’s an athlete worthy of protection and recognition.
And, of course, Steph Curry himself has heaped praise on Clark, noting the similarities in their lightning-quick releases and showmanship: “Where she’s shooting from, the range, the confidence, the flare—she’s a performer…it’s the total package.”
Changing the Game for Good
The verdict from NBA legends is clear: Caitlin Clark is changing women’s basketball forever. While some insist that adversity will only sharpen her greatness, the consensus is that Clark’s impact isn’t limited to the box score. Whether it’s through superlative shooting, putting fans in seats, or forcing the league to confront its old ways, Clark is rewriting the narrative.
And as more legends—from Jordan to Curry, Shaq to Barkley, Magic to Reggie—publicly acknowledge what she brings to the game, it’s clear that Clark’s journey is setting the standard for future generations and anchoring a watershed moment for women’s sports.
Game recognizes game. In Caitlin Clark, the legends see a new trailblazer. The world is watching to see just how far she’ll go.
Full Video:
