Caitlin Clark responds to criticism ahead of first career game-winner

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark just wrote another page in her WNBA legacy on Monday night.

The former No. 1 pick knocked down a 30-footer to seal her team's 78-76 road win over the Washington Mystics.

It was the first game-winner of her career, and it couldn't have come at a more crucial time.

Clark had been facing harsh criticism over her demeanor and complaints, including being called a "spoiled brat," and she had to address that situation before the game. Notably, her response may have been foretelling.

Caitlin Clark won't apologize for her competitive nature

“I don’t think I would be as good of a player if I was very stoic and straight-faced all the time,” Clark told the media (h/t Christine Brennan). “I think you always want your mind to be neutral, but you also want to be excited and passionate and fiery and feisty. And, you know, maybe you have a moment with a ref here and there, or maybe you get super excited and get the crowd hyped up. That’s what’s so fun about competitive sports.”

Clark has been one of the main forces behind the media frenzy surrounding the WNBA, yet the league hasn't necessarily done the best job of marketing her.

She also hasn't done herself many favors with the way she's carried herself on the court at times, though the tape and the numbers speak for themselves.

The Fever haven't been as good as expected to start the season, and some blame Clark for their shortcomings, given that they made the playoffs without her last season.

Even so, with averages of 18.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, 7.9 assists and one steal per game, it's hard to believe they'd be a better team without her on the court.