WNBA Players Criticized for Treatment of Rookie Caitlin Clark

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has called out WNBA players for their treatment of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, saying their actions are hurting the league in the long run.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has criticized WNBA players for their treatment of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, saying their actions are hurting the league in the long run.

Navratilova's comments came after Clark was on the receiving end of a hard foul from Sky guard Chennedy Carter and a rough box out against fellow rookie Angel Reese in a game against the Chicago Sky.

Carter also appeared to call Clark a "b----" before leveling her with a hip-check.

Navratilova said on Twitter that the players in the WNBA need to realize that Clark is helping all of them, now and in the long run.

"She is the tide that will raise all boats!" Navratilova wrote.

Navratilova further explained that she believes Clark's impact on the WNBA game will have a greater financial effect on the league.

"When you have a player like Caitlin Clark, who is a transcendent talent, you need to embrace that and promote her," Navratilova said. "She is going to bring in fans and generate excitement for the league."

Navratilova's comments were met with mixed reactions from WNBA players and fans.

Some players, such as Seattle Storm guard Sue Bird, defended Clark, saying that she is a talented player who deserves to be treated with respect.

Others, such as Las Vegas Aces forward A'ja Wilson, said that Clark needs to learn to stand up for herself and not let other players push her around.

Regardless of the differing opinions, it is clear that Navratilova's comments have sparked a conversation about the treatment of young players in the WNBA.

It is important to note that Clark is not the first young player to be targeted by opposing players. In recent years, several other rookies, such as Breanna Stewart and Diana Taurasi, have also been the victims of hard fouls and other forms of physical play.

While it is understandable that players want to compete hard, it is important to remember that the WNBA is a professional league and that players need to be held to a higher standard of conduct.

The league has taken steps to address the issue of player safety, including implementing new rules and increasing penalties for dangerous play.

However, it is ultimately up to the players to police themselves and to create a culture of respect on the court.

The WNBA is a growing league with a lot of potential. If the players can come together and create a positive and welcoming environment for young players, the league will continue to grow and prosper.