As a dedicated follower of basketball and someone who has witnessed the journey of numerous athletes, I can relate to Shaquille O’Neal’s words of encouragement for Caitlin Clark during her first WNBA season. Having experienced my own share of adversity when starting out in my professional career, I understand that the transition from college to the professional level isn’t always an easy one.
Shaquille O’Neal knows firsthand that basketball isn’t always a slam dunk.
When Caitlin Clark is new to the WNBA, this advice becomes even more relevant. That’s why he urges the rising talent to persevere through the challenges she faces during her debut season.
The NBA veteran shared with TopMob News during an exclusive interview, accompanied by his new gameshow partner Gina Rodriguez from “Lucky 13,” that they referred to it as “significant milestones” or “transitions” in the basketball world. When you excel at college ball, entering pro level means earning your stripes.
Many believe that it’s a matter of fairness or unfairness in our line of work, and I’ve been there myself, Shaquille O’Neal added. “You have to endure the trials and once you make it past them, everything will smooth out.”
I, as a dedicated follower, want to share that it’s not just Shaq who’s supporting Caitlin through tough times. Earlier this year, Brittany Mahomes, a former soccer player at the collegiate and professional level, offered words of encouragement to the 22-year-old after a challenging match.
“@caitlinclark22 keep doing your thing!!” Brittany wrote on her Instagram Story June 2. “You’re a baller and it’s incredible to see what you’re doing for the game and women’s sports!!”
Since joining the Indiana Fever, Caitlin has encountered several apparent fouls targeting her. Some of these infractions have been classified as flagrant-1 penalties under NBA and WNBA regulations, which signify “unwarranted physical contact instigated by a player against an opponent.”
Luckily, Caitlin remains unfazed. “That’s just how it goes,” she commented following her June 1 matchup against the Chicago Sky, as reported by the Associated Press. “It’s a tough, athletic contest.”
Instead of being weighed down by others’ perceived emotions towards her, Caitlin is delighting in her accomplishments. This is truly something to be proud of, considering she was the first pick in the WNBA draft and held the record for highest career scoring in NCAA Division I basketball for both men and women.
Speaking as a lifestyle expert, I’m thrilled to share that joining the Indiana Fever team in April was a long-held dream come true for me. I couldn’t ask for a better beginning to my career – a place that truly embraces basketball and champions women’s sports. Plus, being part of an organization that values integrity and has a rich history of winning is a perfect fit.
And for more of Shaq and Gina, tune into the premiere of Lucky 13 on ABC July 18.
– Reporting by Rachel Smith
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2024-07-17 15:47