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In a recent interview, Caitlin Clark, the rising star of the WNBA and newly named Time's Athlete of the Year shared her admiration for NBA legend LeBron James, naming him as the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT). As a new face in the WNBA, Clark's praise for James reflects the immense influence he has had not only on the men's game but also on women’s basketball.
Clark’s rookie year in the WNBA has been nothing short of remarkable. Drafted first overall by the Indiana Fever in 2024, she wasted no time making a significant impact on the league. Her sensational play earned her the prestigious Rookie of the Year award, making her the second consecutive rookie from Indiana to receive this honor, following Aliyah Boston.
In addition to this accolade, Clark also became only the third rookie in Indiana Fever history to start in the WNBA All-Star Game, further cementing her place among the league's top talents.
Record-Breaking Performances and Historical Feats
Throughout her debut season, Clark set multiple records that highlighted her exceptional skill set. She became the record-holder for both assists and three-point field goals made by a rookie. Not only did she lead the league in assists per game, but her ability to contribute across various facets of the game made her one of the most versatile players in the WNBA.
One of her standout performances came in a game against the Washington Mystics, where she scored 30 points, setting a franchise record for most three-pointers made by a rookie. She also made history by becoming the first player in Fever history to record a triple-double, showcasing her scoring, passing, and rebounding abilities.
Perhaps her most impressive performance came when she recorded a remarkable 19 assists in a game against the Dallas Wings, setting a new league record for the most assists by a rookie.
Leadership and Work Ethic
Beyond her record-breaking statistics, Clark's leadership on the court was also a key part of her success. Her work ethic and determination were evident, earning her the title of Rookie of the Month four times. These contributions helped the Fever remain competitive throughout the season, highlighting Clark’s role as a player capable of elevating her team and pushing them toward success.
Clark's Endorsement of LeBron James as the GOAT
Despite the ongoing debate among basketball fans over who truly deserves the GOAT title, Clark has made it clear who her pick is: LeBron James. In a video shared by Legion Hoops on X, Clark expressed her unwavering admiration for James, stating that she considers him the greatest player of all time.
“For me, it’s LeBron,” she said, emphasizing the incredible influence he has had on the game of basketball. Clark pointed to James's unmatched achievements and his ability to transcend traditional boundaries in the sport. His legacy as an athlete and role model has inspired countless players, and for Clark, he remains the epitome of basketball excellence.
James's Impact on Both Men’s and Women’s Basketball
Clark’s declaration underscores the far-reaching impact LeBron James has had not just on men’s basketball, but also on women’s basketball. As she continues to make her own mark in the WNBA, Clark’s recognition of James highlights the interconnectedness of the sport and the enduring legacy of basketball icons like him.
