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YouTuber cites LeBron James analogy to explain why JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers won't face Caitlin Clark-like slander
Despite being one of the most impressive WNBA rookies, Caitlin Clark still faces criticism whenever she has a subpar outing or simply because she's being built up as the future face of the league. YouTuber Sniper J0nes argued that prospects JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers will not experience the same level of scrutiny, as he cited a LeBron James analogy.
The 20-time NBA All-Star started his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers during his first seven seasons in the league. In a quest to capture a championship, he moved to Miami to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The move went viral at the time, making several fans furious about his decision.
Sniper J0nes' comments were discussed on the "The People of Atlanta" podcast, where he highlighted how the narrative around LeBron James has vastly changed over the years. His move to the Heat happened a long time ago, and the Lakers star has since accomplished much more in the league.
"Think LeBron, he went to Miami, took the lumps, it's fine now," Jones said. "... when Paige Bueckers come in and when JuJu come in, it's going to be fine because it's not going to be a thing anymore. ..."
Since Caitlin Clark's arrival, she has received immense attention from the media, with varying perceptions of what she brings to the table. Meanwhile, other promising basketball talents such as JuJu Watkins and Paige Bueckers are expected to add more to the WNBA's excitement factor for years to come.
However, since Clark has already gotten the bulk of strong criticisms as a rookie, the reception won't be as intense for Watkins and Bueckers since the Fever guard has already started things off.
LeBron James gives support to Caitlin Clark
The 2024 No.1 pick has been stellar in her rookie campaign as she continues to set the standard for the Indiana Fever. Being a culture change for a basketball franchise carries a lot of pressure with it and the same can be said when one is expected to carry the league's torch in the future.
It is the same situation that LeBron James can relate to as he gave his full support to the Fever rookie, as per the May 23 episode of the "Mind The Game" podcast.
"Don't get it twisted, James said. "... Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things are going to happen for the WNBA. But for her individually, I don't think she should get involved on [anything] that being said, just go have fun, enjoy. I'm rooting for Caitlin because I've been in that seat before, I've walked that road before. I hope she kills ..."
Amid all the expectations on Clark's shoulders, the four-time NBA Champion highlighted the importance of not letting outside noise take away from her enjoyment in her first year in the WNBA.
This season, Caitlin Clark is averaging 17.1 points (40.5% shooting, including 32.7% from three-point range), 8.2 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game.
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