Former NFL quarterback Cam Newton has shared his unfiltered opinion regarding Caitlin Clark’s rough initiation into the WNBA, following Chennedy Carter’s controversial push on the rookie. Newton didn’t hold back his views on the matter, emphasizing the competitive nature of professional sports.
Caitlin Clark, a former Iowa basketball star and new addition to the Indiana Fever, has openly expressed her frustrations with the physicality she’s faced early in her WNBA career. The tension reached a boiling point when she was knocked down by Chennedy Carter of the Chicago Sky during the Fever’s narrow 71-70 victory, which marked their first home win of the season. Despite the intensity of the incident, Clark has remained vocal about the challenges she’s encountering.
Reflecting on the situation, Newton, himself a former top draft pick, commented on the fierce competition in professional leagues. He highlighted that Clark is now playing among some of the best and most aggressive athletes. “Why are we acting as if she’s America’s sweetheart in a league full of hyenas and lions, tigers, and bears?” Newton questioned on his show “4th and 1 with Cam Newton”. He stressed that Clark should expect mental, physical, and emotional challenges as rivals aim to dethrone her.
Newton further remarked that Clark’s high profile and young age might draw additional scrutiny and animosity from other players. He pointed out that her lucrative endorsement deals, like the significant one with Nike, could also make her a target. “Nobody is above getting checked or being disliked. So, Caitlin, welcome to the big leagues,” he stated, urging her to toughen up and face the realities of her new environment.
Clark’s response to the rough play has been composed, acknowledging that such challenges are part of the game. She admitted that Carter’s push caught her off guard but chose to focus on her team’s execution and resilience in securing the win. “It is what it is. It’s a physical game. Go make the free throw and execute on offense,” she said, demonstrating her determination to adapt and thrive despite the setbacks.
Chennedy Carter, on her part, defended her actions as part of competitive play. She explained that her intense approach is driven by her desire to compete fiercely, regardless of her opponent’s status. “I’m a competitor, and I’m going to compete no matter who you are,” Carter said, emphasizing that the physicality was part of the heat of the moment and that there’s mutual respect among players once the game ends.
As Caitlin Clark continues to navigate her rookie season, the scrutiny and challenges she faces will likely persist. However, her ability to rise above these obstacles and establish herself in the league will be crucial for her long-term success. The strong opinions from prominent figures like Cam Newton underscore the high expectations and intense pressure that come with being a top prospect in professional sports.
