Caitlin Clark given license to stand up for herself following push by Marina Mabrey, per Rachel Nichols
In the heat of WNBA action, the battle-hardened Caitlin Clark has faced some rough moments on the court. A standout instance occurred during Indiana's victory against the Connecticut Sun, where Clark was roughed up by Jacy Sheldon and Marina Mabrey, prompting questions about her needing an "enforcer" to shield her from such treatment.
On Sports Illustrated's "Open Floor" show, Chris Mannix proposed that Indiana should provide Clark with a bit more protection, comparing her to legends like Michael Jordan, Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant, stating, "You gotta protect the face of the league, ladies."
While the Sun went hard on Clark during their encounter, it wasn't until a whole quarter had passed that Clark's teammate, Sophie Cunningham, stepped in to defend her. Cunningham took on Sheldon, the instigator of the initial incident, sending a strong message to the league about safeguarding their star player.
The situation reminded Mannix and fellow commentator Rachel Nichols of the struggles faced by Steph Curry, who has been physically bullied by opponents over the years in an attempt to slow him down. Nichols suggested that Clark might be her own enforcer, but Curry has had Draymond Green as his protective partner throughout his career.
Mannix disagreed, emphasizing the need for someone on Clark's team to intervene if she's targeted. With Clark entering her second year in the league, Mannix argued it's high time someone stepped up to be her bodyguard.
The emergence of an enforcer role within the WNBA isn't new, mirroring the protective function Draymond Green provides for Steph Curry in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike have noted the importance of a tough, defensive teammate like Sophie Cunningham, who can deter opponents from overly aggressive play against key scorers like Clark.
As the lively debate around Clark's need for an enforcer continues, many anticipate that someone on the Fever will soon step up to the plate and assume the role. After all, every superstar needs a protector. What's your take on this issue? Share your thoughts below.
In the WNBA, as Chris Mannix suggested on the "Open Floor" show, there's a growing debate about whether Caitlin Clark, a leading player like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, or Kobe Bryant in the women's league, should have a protective teammate, or an 'enforcer,' similar to Draymond Green's role with Steph Curry in the NBA. Sophie Cunningham, Clark's teammate, stepped in to defend her during a particularly rough game, reinforcing the importance of such a role in basketball.
