WNBA legend shares a wakeup call for college stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese

Two of the top collegiate players in the country, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, have taken the basketball world by storm. However, while the future looks bright for both, a WNBA legend recently pumped the brakes on their pro expectations. 

Appearing on former All-Star Gilbert Arenas' show, Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes provided a reality check for Clark and Reese, should they expect a smooth transition from college to the WNBA. 

"There's talent. Like, these women can play," Swoopes said. "And because there are very few roster spots, it's a real job. So, people look at new players coming in — and they look at that and say, 'Oh, you're trying to come take my job?' Like, no, it's not going to be that easy." 

Clark has put Iowa's program on the map and is on track to break the women's college scoring record. Meanwhile, Reese is the face of the defending NCAA champions, LSU, and is already an accomplished player on both ends of the floor. On the surface, they seem tailor-made for standout careers at the next level, but Swoopes cautioned that it will likely take some time.

"Will Caitlin Clark be a good pro? Absolutely," Swoopes said. "Will Caitlin Clark come into the WNBA and do what she's doing right now? Immediately? Absolutely not."

Similarly, Swoopes believes Reese will have an uphill climb but "eventually" become a good professional.

"I don't think Angel will come into the league immediately and dominate the way people think she will," Swoopes said. 

Swoopes' words might seem pessimistic, but they do carry weight. A four-time WNBA champion, three-time MVP and six-time All-Star, she has a good idea of what it takes to be a dominant player in the league and win consistently. 

For now, we can only speculate about what Clark and Reese will ultimately become once they turn pro. Although, taking Swoopes' message for what it is, perhaps it's time to slow down the hype train.