Caitlin Clark has finally gotten rare support amid a concerning rookie season. While the youngster is aware of the steep quality rise from the NCAA to the WNBA, definite questions are being raised about her opponent’s physicality. While several analysts and ex-players refused to agree to it, a handful had the 22-year-old’s back. Recently, Pat McAfee, a sports analyst, called out every critic with a straight sniper shot, batting for the rookie, and also received an acknowledgment from the Houston Rockets star, Jabari Smith Jr.

Speaking of Clark on live TV, McAfee said, “The media people continue to say, ‘This rookie crass….’ Nah, just call for what it is. There is one white bi**h in the Indiana team, who is a superstar.” The video clip of that particular line has torn social media apart, irking reactions from many fans in the comments. And one of them was Jabari Smith Jr. He commented, “Ohhhhhhh shit,” with a flurry of laughing emojis. Nevertheless, McAfee later apologized for the usage of the B word on live air.

On X, he wrote, “I shouldn’t have used “white b***h” as a descriptor of Caitlin Clark. No matter the context… My intentions when saying it were complimentary just like the entire segment. That’s 100% on me and for that, I apologize… I have sent an apology to Caitlin as well. ” He also pointed out how his words were taken out of context on racial lines.

After a sensational run in the NCAA March Madness, Clark stormed her way into the Indiana Fever side. But, since then, it hasn’t been a joy ride for her. There were multiple instances of opponents showing brute physicality intentionally on the rookie. Recently Chicago Sky’s Chennedy Carter went viral for shoving Clark down without either of them having possession of the ball.

Charles Barley slated as criticism of Clark Clark overpowers any past praise

Phoenix Suns legend Charles Barkley was the first to show support for Caitlin Clark from the men’s side of the league. He said, “You women out there, y’all petty man… All the money and visibility she’s bringing to the WNBA. What she’s accomplished — give her her flowers. Stop being petty all you women out there.” And also urged the players to be grateful for having her in the league.

At the same, Chuck immediately received backlash from the WNBA sports analyst, Elle Duncan. She went on air and ripped apart the legend with a fiery rant. She added, “I am tired of it… Who are these girls hating on Caitlin Clark… What are these women supposed to do? Faun over her, fangirl over her, bend the fu****g knee…” 

Interestingly, Damian Lillard also sided with Duncan as he shared her views on his IG stories and wrote, “Bingo.” However, even after Duncan’s rant on live TV, Clark’s struggle on the court continued to prove her wrong. Moreover, WNBA players also don’t seem to back down. Notably, Chennedy Carter, who was given flagrant foul in the recent questionable action against Clark, wrote, “All we did is fight and argue. I love the hate more than the love what don’t yall understand,” on her IG.

Will Caitlin Clark overcome these tough times and rise to the top? Let us know in the comments.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.