Caitlin Clark receives harsh warning from Brittney Griner: “You’re going against grown women this time”
Caitlin Clark is creating a significant impact both in sports and advertising. Her transition from Iowa Hawkeye to the Indiana Fever has generated various reactions from the media, fans, and players. Among them, veteran Brittney Griner cautioned the rookie about the challenges of professional basketball.
In a People magazine interview for her book “Coming Home,” Griner acknowledged that the 2024 draft class, including Caitlin, will be pivotal for the WNBA. “The buzz around Caitlin and others is fantastic for the league. We’re seeing great talent coming in,” Griner noted.
Reflecting on her own entry into the WNBA as the first overall pick in 2013, Griner admitted it was a tough adjustment despite being labeled a “generational” talent like Clark. She had to adapt her game significantly from college to the pros.
“It’s a different ball game transitioning from college to the pros. I went from being top-tier to adjusting my performance,” Griner reminisced. Her stats shifted from averaging 22.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists with Baylor Lady Bears to 14.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and one assist with the Mercury.
Griner emphasized that her rookie season was an “eye-opener,” cautioning Clark about the intense competition in the professional league. “You’re competing against seasoned athletes who rely on this for their livelihood, not just for the love of the game,” Griner explained.
She advised Clark to prepare for challenges ahead. “She’ll need to get stronger, more focused. There will be some growing pains, but she’ll do well.”
While respecting Clark’s talent, Griner admitted she wasn’t a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, particularly during their NCAA Tournament finals against the South Carolina Gamecocks.
