During the most recent episode of the Nightcap podcast, ESPN commentator Shannon Sharpe strongly expressed his views regarding the treatment of Indiana Fever newcomer Caitlin Clark by fellow WNBA athletes. In a dialogue with ex-NFL receiver Chad Johnson, Sharpe highlighted an incident involving Seattle Storm’s Skylar Diggins-Smith, where Diggins-Smith seemed to push Clark from behind while the rookie was exciting the crowd during a recent match.
Sharpe did not hold back, implying that Diggins-Smith’s actions were deliberate and suggestive of a larger problem within the WNBA, where he believes some players might be envious of Clark’s early achievements.
“Enough of this nonsense,” Sharpe declared. “You all witnessed the urgency. Caitlin Clark was amping up the audience. Skylar Diggins hurried up to make contact with her. Stop This! You all are upset because that Midwest, Iowa woman is outperforming you. You all claimed she lacked strength. She’s leading the WNBA in assists. She’s on fire! Let her shine! Let her shine!”
Clark, who has been exceptional in her debut season, concluded the game against the Storm on Sunday with 23 points, nine assists, and five rebounds.
Shannon Sharpe accuses fellow WNBA athletes of envying Caitlin Clark
Sharpe’s observations revolved around what he views as unwarranted aggression towards Clark by her peers. He brought up previous instances where Clark had encountered physical play from opponents, referencing incidents involving athletes such as Chennedy Carter and Breanna Stewart. Sharpe contended that these behaviors originate from envy towards her skill and accomplishments, as Clark is presently leading the league in assists and has emerged as a pivotal player for the Fever.
“You’re upset because that unassuming Iowa native is outshining you. You said, ‘She lacks power. She can’t pull this off.’ She leads the WNBA in assists. She’s on fire — allow her to shine. Let her shine. Enable that young woman to shine. She’s like a versatile weapon, Ocho, she’s cutting through everyone…Cut away.”
Clark’s outstanding performance has positioned the Indiana Fever well to contend for a postseason berth this season. Over her last six games, Clark has maintained an average of over 20 points and 11.7 assists per game, recently surpassing the WNBA rookie assist record previously held by Ticha Penicheiro.
Image Source: Shannon Sharpe @ Instagram
