NBA Icon Rick Barry Calls for Greater Protection for Caitlin Clark in the WNBA

Rick Barry highlights the level of physicality that rookie sensation Caitlin Clark endures in the WNBA.

Caitlin Clark’s impact on the WNBA hasn’t gone unnoticed, even among NBA legends. Recently, Hall of Famers Rick Barry and George Gervin expressed their admiration for the Indiana Fever star, emphasizing her influence on the league.

In an interview with Joy D’Angela on Thursday, Barry and Gervin spoke about Clark’s positive contributions to the WNBA and called for the league to protect her from excessive physicality.

Barry was clear in his disapproval of the level of contact Clark has been subjected to, saying, “It’s disgraceful what the league allows some of these players to get away with.”

Clark’s rookie season has indeed been marked by aggressive play, evident in the five flagrant fouls committed against her, which account for nearly 17% of all flagrant fouls across the league, as reported by acrossthetimeline.com.

“Anyone committing a flagrant foul against this young woman, who’s done so much for the game, should face serious suspensions and fines,” Barry added.

While not all fouls appear intentional, Clark has also faced numerous rough fouls and overly aggressive screens throughout the season.

George Gervin Weighs in on Caitlin Clark’s Influence

George Gervin echoed Barry’s sentiments, emphasizing Clark’s value to the WNBA. “They don’t realize the value she brings to everyone in the league,” he remarked. “They’re flying private planes now, which they didn’t have before her.”

Gervin highlighted how Clark’s presence has boosted the league’s exposure and attracted new opportunities, including more games being broadcasted on major networks.

“They’re on big networks now…that wasn’t happening before she joined the league. Even the Aces, as good as they are, couldn’t bring what she has brought to the game,” Gervin continued.

He concluded by encouraging the league to embrace players like Clark, as their presence could lead to greater financial opportunities for all involved.

Caitlin Clark’s Record-Breaking Rookie Season with the Indiana Fever

Despite a close 78-74 loss to the Las Vegas Aces, Clark’s historic season continued as she broke the WNBA single-season assist record on Friday night. By recording her 317th assist, Clark surpassed the previous record of 316 set by Alyssa Thomas in 2023, and she achieved this feat with two games remaining in the season.

Caitlin Clark’s remarkable debut season has left an indelible mark on the WNBA, sparking conversations about both her legacy and the league’s need to ensure her safety on the court.