Steve Kerr Compares Caitlin Clark to Steph Curry in NBA's 'Rite of Passage' forRookies

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr believes that WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark is experiencing a similar "rite of passage" as NBA superstar Steph Curry faced early in his career. Kerr highlights the challenges young players encounter as opponents try to test their abilities and explains how Clark's current struggles are part of the growth process.

Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, recently drew parallels between WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark and NBA legend Steph Curry, emphasizing the challenges young players face in professional sports.

"I think it's a rite of passage for young players, whether it's the WNBA or the NBA," Kerr said during an interview with MSNBC. "The other players are going to test you."

Kerr's comments stemmed from discussions about the intense scrutiny Clark has faced since joining the Indiana Fever as the league's No. 1 overall pick. Kerr believes that Clark's experience mirrors that of Curry, who entered the NBA with high expectations but faced adversity before becoming a superstar.

"Caitlin reminds me a lot of Steph Curry," Kerr said. "In Steph's first couple of years, he was not a superstar. He was not who he is now. He had to get stronger. He had to understand people were coming after him."

Clark has been a highly touted prospect since breaking the NCAA record for most three-pointers made in a single season. However, her transition to the WNBA has been challenging, with opponents using physicality and trash talk to disrupt her game.

"She's an amazing player, but like any player that comes into the WNBA or the NBA, it takes time," Kerr explained. "They have to get stronger, more used to the contact, the physicality, the athleticism."

Kerr emphasized that the challenges Clark faces are inherent in the development of young players. He praised her resilience and believes that she will overcome the adversity she encounters.

"She's handling herself beautifully," Kerr said. "She'll be fine, and I think everything going through right now is all a part of being a pro."

Curry also struggled in his early NBA years, finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting and averaging 17.5 points per game. It wasn't until the 2012-13 season that he emerged as a superstar, averaging 22.9 points per game and shooting 42.4% from three-point range.

Clark's current statistics – 16.3 points per game, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists – are promising, but she has room for improvement in her shooting percentages (37.3% from the field, 33.0% from three).

Despite the challenges, Kerr believes Clark is on the right path. He noted that Curry also faced difficulties early in his career and that Clark's struggles are part of the growth process for any young player.

As Clark continues her rookie season, she will undoubtedly encounter more obstacles. However, the experiences she gains will help her develop into a more complete player, just as they did for Curry.

Kerr's comparison between Clark and Curry highlights the universal challenges faced by young athletes in professional sports. The "rite of passage" that Kerr describes involves overcoming adversity, adapting to the rigors of the league, and finding a way to succeed despite the intense competition.

Clark's journey in the WNBA is just beginning, but she has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Curry and become one of the league's biggest stars.