Sheryl Swoopes, a legendary figure in the WNBA, has recently made waves with an unexpected shift in her opinion about Caitlin Clark. Known for her past critical remarks regarding Clark’s influence on the Indiana Fever, Swoopes has found herself in the spotlight once again after offering a more favorable take on the rising star. Despite past controversies, including her dismissal of Clark’s role in the Fever’s improvement, Swoopes has begun to acknowledge the significant impact the 23-year-old has had on her team’s performance.
For context, Swoopes faced heavy criticism in 2024 when she downplayed Clark’s contributions to the Fever’s success. In a now-infamous moment, she refused to give the young guard credit for the team’s rise in the league, which led to backlash from fans and analysts alike. Her support of former Chicago Sky player Diamond DeShields, who had made a controversial play against Clark, also didn’t sit well with many, further fueling the narrative that Swoopes wasn’t a fan of Clark’s style. However, in a recent interview shared by ESPN on TikTok, Swoopes offered some praise for Clark, signaling a change in tone.
In the interview, Swoopes highlighted several factors contributing to the Fever’s growth. She credited new additions to the team, such as DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard, as well as the continued development of Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, for elevating Indiana’s chances for a championship. Still, it was her recognition of Clark’s offseason progress that caught many by surprise. “Caitlin got so much stronger in the offseason. You know she was in the gym working on her game,” Swoopes commented, praising the young star’s commitment to improvement.
The shift in Swoopes’ stance didn’t go unnoticed by fans, many of whom took to social media to express their surprise. “Wow, she didn’t say anything negative about Caitlin Clark—this is a big change,” one commenter remarked. Others noted that Swoopes seemed to be evolving her perspective on Clark, with one fan expressing disbelief at the positive comments. Some even speculated that Swoopes may have been under pressure to voice support for the star, but regardless of the reason, it marked a notable moment in their dynamic.
What stands out is Swoopes’ acknowledgment of the Fever’s potential. The team’s offseason additions, combined with the improvements made by their core players like Clark, Boston, and Mitchell, have set the stage for an exciting season. As the Indiana Fever continue to develop, the combination of youth, skill, and experience could make them a formidable force in the WNBA, with or without the support of every analyst. Swoopes’ comments may be a sign of greater things to come for the Fever, signaling a competitive season ahead.
Ultimately, Sheryl Swoopes’ newfound appreciation for Caitlin Clark and the Fever’s growth offers a glimpse into the evolving nature of WNBA narratives. What was once a rivalry-filled debate has shifted into a more balanced discussion about the team’s future. As the Fever’s key players continue to develop, it’s clear that their trajectory in the league will be one to watch closely.
