Minnesota Lynx and Team USA head coach Cheryl Reeve hasn’t been shy about her feelings toward Caitlin Clark, and they haven’t always been favorable. Just last month, Reeve made headlines with her blunt dismissal of Clark’s influence, stating that she “didn’t give two s****” about Clark and the hype surrounding her during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Lynx.
Reeve’s opinions also seemingly influenced USA Basketball’s decision to exclude Clark from the Team USA roster that went on to win the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this month. Given this history, many fans were surprised when Reeve recently praised the rookie sensation ahead of Minnesota’s 90-80 victory over Indiana on Sunday.
Reeve acknowledged Clark’s ability to draw crowds, referring to her final college season as a “roadshow” that captured the attention of fans across the country. Reeve highlighted how players like Clark are helping the league transcend traditional boundaries by creating this kind of buzz, saying, “Caitlin Clark and some of these other rookies give us that. Obviously, Caitlin being a big headliner.”
Reeve also commended Clark’s exceptional “pace and passing,” emphasizing her unique skills on the court. This shift in Reeve’s tone has sparked reactions across the WNBA, including from legend Rebecca Lobo. Lobo supported Reeve’s comments, noting that Clark’s ability to quickly and efficiently move the ball up the floor, both through passing and dribbling, sets her apart from others.
While some fans have criticized Reeve for what they see as a contradictory stance on Clark, Lobo has chosen to focus on the positive aspects of Reeve’s remarks. She echoed the sentiment that Clark’s style of play is groundbreaking and revolutionary for women’s basketball.
Ultimately, the growing recognition of Caitlin Clark’s impact on the sport is a sign that the league is beginning to embrace her game-changing influence, regardless of past disagreements or criticisms. Clark’s ability to revolutionize women’s basketball is becoming increasingly undeniable, and it’s clear that her presence is being felt across the WNBA.
