Is it the day when Caitlin Clark and Co. finally end their journey in the 2024 March Madness? Gino Auriemma has sent out his players in their best forms today, especially their senior guard Nika Muhl. She is following the No. 22 like a shadow, getting physical, and destroying Lisa Bluder’s offensive game plan. Following the same, fans can’t help but look at the Naismith Player of the Year lock up on the hardwood like never before in her entire college career.
While the Huskies may have to pack their bags to return to Storr with a defeat, Nika will remain the player who could make Caitlin Clark sweat tonight. In fact, in the very first half, she was Clark’s worst nightmare. Until the third quarter where she had to take a short trip to the bench after injuring her leg, she was a force to reckon. However, she operated better than Hailey Van Lith against the Naismith Player of the Year.
Nika Muhl bagged 6 points with two shots coming from beyond the arc in the first ten minutes only. At the same time, she stopped Clark from multiple shots and passes as the Iowa star only had 6 points at the hald. No doubt, the entire Arena was all about the No. 10 on UConn’s list.
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After 5 years, finally someone was able to stop Caitlin Clark, leaving the internet stunned
Many parallels are being drawn in tonight’s Final Four game. But some fans broke all boundaries as they brought Nika Muhl next to 6x NBA champion Scottie Pippen. One basketball follower compared Nika Muhl to the Chicago Bulls legend when he used to guard his competitors on the floor like they were nothing.
Nika Muhl defending Caitlin Clark like prime Scottie Pippen
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) April 6, 2024
Clark is often referred to as the female Stephen Curry. But does that mean she should also get that treatment? A fan posted his reaction to UConn’s defense on the 2x National Player of the Year.
UCONN giving Caitlin Clark the Steph Curry treatment. They’re playing defense on her like the sun ain’t coming up tomorrow.
— Dante' Redwood (@DanteRedwood) April 6, 2024
It is clear from Clark’s performance tonight that she is having a rough time. But a fan put it into better words.
Nike Mühl got Caitlin Clark in hell #WFinalFour
— Kay Street (@_KayStreet) April 6, 2024
While another Clark fan was all about her showing up in the worst timings and reigning over her opponents anyway, he has this to say.
Caitlin Clark’s a mess rn, in all phases. Bad passing (threw an outlet one on two??), awful defensive rotation, messy offense.
Gonna be a test of adversity. Can’t count her out ever, but Geno’s got her shook.
— Kyle Bonn (@the_bonnfire) April 6, 2024
Another one gave it a humorous turn with a video by Mark Phillips guarding his friend, who ultimately made all the baskets. But does it mean that Nika Muhl will also end up on the bench with Caitlin Clark reigning over them?
How Nika Muhl guarding Caitlin Clark
— Overtime (@overtime) April 6, 2024
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Last but not least, it would not be a reaction fest for the die-hard fans if they did not mention Hailey Van Lith against Caitlin Clark in their Elite Eight matchup.
Hailey Van Lith watching UConn absolutely lock up Caitlin Clark pic.twitter.com/ZsGGhZWLEl
— betr (@betr) April 6, 2024
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Nika Muhl has proven to the world that Caitlin Clark can be stopped, at least to a point. Whether they win the game tonight or leave the Fieldhouse with defeat in their hands, Gino has a rock on his roster. However, as a senior, she too may move to the professional grounds soon. Until then, let us enjoy the thrilling Final Four and see if UConn will keep its numbers up or not.