In the 27 years of the WNBA, there have not been many players who divide the crowd as clearly as Caitlin Clark does. Not just the fans, the Indiana Fever rookie has even polarized the league veterans and icons. Earlier, it was Diana Taurasi who got the brunt of the Indiana fans. Now, Sheryl Swoopes has re-emerged as one of those at the far end of the spectrum. However, one aid that the Des Moines native has received amongst others is from her opponent of the night– Tina Charles.

Tonight, the State Farm Arena hosted the Fever, and with them, came 17,600 fans. Without hiding who brought in so many WNBA followers to the building, the Hall of Famer Charles gives Caitlin Clark her flowers. In the pregame interview, she said, “Obviously, we know who Caitlin Clark is and what she has been able to do. Her impact in this league, especially this year. So, however we can get it, I’ll take it. For me personally. Just thankful that I’m able to be a part of it and still be here to see it.”

Undoubtedly, Caitlin Clark has affected the numbers in the WNBA just as she did in the NCAA in her final two years as a Hawkeye. But taking praise from a veteran like Tina Charles who has 3x Olympic gold medals, has been the only Hall of Famer who is actively playing, and 8x WNBA All-Star surely means a lot. And the fans are definitely all for it.

Indiana loyalists happy with Tina Charles’ classy act towards Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark has had recognition from the industry in Sue Bird, Candace Parker, and even a few NBA icons, but her impact has often gone unnoticed by the active players in the league. Add that to the physicality highlighted against her, WNBA veterans have been perceived to hate the golden rookie. Hence, Tina Charles’ remark wasn’t short of fresh air for the Clark loyalists.

“Respect to Tina Charles for being honest about Caitlin Clark’s impact on the WNBA She gets it.”

In her 29 games in the league, the W has seen a rise in fan following, jersey sales, social media engagement, and a lot more. Outside of the lines, Caitlin Clark has been active in contributing to society and working on various causes. She has also been calmer towards any heat she faced, clarifying it is just a game. Certainly, winning everyone’s hearts.

“It’s about time Clark gets some positive as she has made a huge impact on WNBA . Oh ya she’s she’s also a nice person .”

Earlier in May this season, Tina Charles had also iterated, “The energy that we’re getting, the reception, the eyes that we’re getting on us, it’s amazing… It’s just because of that new generation that’s coming in.” The veteran’s acknowledgement in giving credits where it is due, isn’t lost on the spectators, encouraging more of it.

“100%. She’s been consistent any time asked. I wish more vets realized this is the only right attitude to have. Using the moment to express resentment or tell people about what they missed doesn’t win fans. This invites that opportunity.”

Remember before the All-Star Weekend break when Caitlin Clark’s effect was being compared to Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, and the Williams sisters? Well, that has returned. There is no denying that what this 22-year-old has been able to gain for the league has never really happened before.  And now, they have new media rights deals and ticket sales that all add to the league’s popularity. One fan is all about the forward change.

“it’s the tiger woods effect. the williams sisters effect. she draws eyes and eyes draw money and interest. then the players draw bigger checks.”

While Charles did spell it out, seems like one WNBA follower believes that everyone knows but denies to accept it. Surely, anywhere that the Fever has traveled, they have brought in a plethora of fans, eventually leading the league in home and away attendance; 186k and 230k respectively. An acknowledgment is all one asks.

“other players get it too, they just don’t want to acknowledge it.”

Caitlin Clark has been impacting the floor, the Fever, and the league as a whole. Not to mention, she picked right where she left after escalating NCAA basketball as a complete sport. No matter the final results, Charles’ words are surely not going to be forgotten.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.