From the very first month of Clark's rookie season, she absorbed controversial hits from opposing players, sparking outrage among many fans.Some referees have also come under heavy scrutiny for how they've handled those moments.The hits on Clark have sparked ensuing debates that often invoke race, sexual orientation and politics.ZERO BS.
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DOWNLOAD NOW!Here's how it's all gone down:Clark was whacked in her first pro game in the Big Apple.New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart sent Clark flying to the hardwood simply by standing still and setting a screen.Clark was blindsided as she ran full speed into Stewart without looking ahead.The play was legal, and appeared more to do with Clark not seeing what was in front of her as opposed to Stewart intentionally trying to hurt Clark.
But the hit still got the fire started on social media, with many brandishing the play as Clark's "welcome to the league" moment, and some fans criticizing her teammates for not warning her of the screen.CAITLIN CLARK REVEALS 'WELCOME TO THE W' MOMENT WHEN SHE WAS INJURED EARLY IN 2024 SEASONClark spoke her mind very early.During an early-season game against the Los Angeles Sparks, veteran guards like Kia Nurse and Aari McDonald shadowed Clark relentlessly, full-court pressing her, face-guarding her, and bumping her off her spots every time she tried to navigate through screens.Clark ended up shooting 15 free throws in that game alone.But even with all those free throws, Clark suggested the Sparks players may have gotten away with some more."I think everybody is physical with me, they get away with things that probably other people don’t get away with," Clark told reporters after the game.
"It's tough, but it's a very physical game.That's just professional basketball."Two days later, Clark was chest-bumped by Seattle Storm guard Victoria Vivians.Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever exchanges words with Victoria Vivians of the Seattle Storm...