Women’s college basketball has in the last couple of seasons seen an incredible rise of two players. Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have both impressed fans, players, and critics alike, and seemingly have it all.
Impressive stats and constant standout performances have led to an incredible increase in the anticipation of their WNBA debut. Both players are on the cusp of transitioning from the college hardwood to the professional stage and will be eligible for the upcoming draft.
However, WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes recently shared insights that temper expectations for their immediate impact in the league. Speaking on the Gilbert Arenas Show, hosted by former NBA star Arenas himself, she said:
I think Angel will eventually be a good pro. I don't think Angel will come into the league immediately and dominate the way people think she will. I say that for people who have never watched a WNBA game - it's good. There's talent. Like these women can play. And because there are very few roster spots...so people look at new players come in whether it's out of college, players who have been overseas and they look at that and say, 'Oh you trynna come take my job.' No. It's not gonna be that easy.
Swoopes went on to talk about Caitlin Clark. She claimed that the Iowa Hawkeyes star, like Reese, will have a similar transitional period, despite obvious talent:
So will Caitlin Clark be a good pro? Absolutely. Will Caitlin Clark come into the WNBA and do what she's doing right now immediately? Absolutely not, not gonna happen.
Hence, it is fair to say that the veteran does not expect immediate fireworks from either of the two stars. Of course, there are plenty of people who will disagree.
Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark set to take the WNBA by storm?
Caitlin Clark’s college basketball journey at the University of Iowa has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a scoring average of 32 points, she led the Hawkeyes to the National Championship game in the previous season. Clark remains a highly anticipated prospect for the upcoming WNBA Draft and is a menace on both ends of the court.
Of course, Swoopes didn’t reserve her words solely for Caitlin Clark. She extended similar sentiments towards LSU superstar Angel Reese. While acknowledging Reese’s potential to become a star, she advised against expecting her to dominate the league from the outset. Reese, like Clark, must navigate the competitive landscape of the WNBA, where every player is vying to secure their spot, according to the veteran. Of course, Reese also has a glowing review from Shaquille O’Neal.
Swoopes went on to take the example of multiple previously highly-touted college players. These include some superstars, such as Sabrina Ionescu and Kelsey Plum. Both the players took time to settle down in the WNBA, and Swoopes expects something similar from the likes of Reese and Clark.
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