“Nobody likes to lose,” Caitlin Clark disappointedly described her debut performance. The Fever’s No. 1 pick this year made headlines for having the most turnovers in WNBA’s history on debut. But as the Caitlin Clark effect continues to take over the basketball world, is it also affecting her game? After the 92-71 blowout loss in her WNBA opener, many seem to believe that Clark is struggling to transition to the WNBA. However, taking her side, one of the most controversial analysts in the basketball world, Stephen A. Smith, sides with the Indiana rookie to boost her confidence back.

Caitlin Clark broke her silence about the loss during practice at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. She commented, “I don’t think it’s any different from college. I played in front of sold-out crowds literally every single game. So, these environments don’t scare me or impact me at all.” The NCAA’s all-time leading scorer added, “Just embrace it, enjoy it. I’m sure there will be a lot of basketball fans here that really appreciate the game. So, for myself, that’s fun to play in front of.”

The strong contender for the Rookie of the Year award also talked about her experience so far in the professional league. She said, “I’m excited. I think this is the best way to do it, just get out there and go for it. It doesn’t really feel like my first game. I feel like it’s just another basketball game that you prepare for the same way you always had and obviously, a little different magnitude.”

Clark seemed a little frustrated yesterday when playing against Connecticut. So much so that multiple fouls and bad passes made head coach Christie Sides bench her in the very first half. However, she did put up game-high points, becoming the only Indiana rookie, after the legend Tamika Catchings, to ever do so with 20 points. Hence, the First Take commentator on ESPN is head-over-heels with the young talent.

“I rest my case” Stephen A. drops his vote for Caitlin Clark

In her very first game in the W, Caitlin Clark had to face one of the best defensive teams in the league. Keeping this in mind, Stephen A. Smith said, “Of course, the night was a success. The biggest reason why? How many threes did she hit? This her first game, correct? Did she drop 20? Did she drop four threes? Why is Caitlin Clark a star? What’s her signature? I rest my case.”

According to the First Take commentator, Clark has lived up to everything that she had earned in the NCAA. He also added that ten turnovers are not something that’s going to happen every night. And when a college basketball player who many have dubbed the Stephen Curry of women’s basketball is the topic, Smith believes that she has made her point clear.

Certainly, even in the first game of her WNBA career, Caitlin Clark has shown that she can pull off threes and make double-digit scores like the offensive menace that she is. While she will certainly have to boost her intensity, Smith, for one, has all the faith in the stellar athlete.