Caitlin Clark has emerged as one of the most polarizing figures in sports. The Indiana Fever guard is the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, following an impressive career with the Iowa Hawkeyes, where she led the team to two national championship game appearances.
After being selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA draft, she had a solid rookie season, averaging 19.2 points and 8.4 assists per game. This year, she is off to a strong start, averaging 23.5 points, 10.5 assists and 7.5 rebounds per game.
The Fever has a 1-1 record at the start of the season, but it was the team’s most recent game that caught the attention of former Fox Sports analyst Skip Bayless. Bayless has had a successful media career and is known as the “Godfather” of sports debate shows; he was a foundational figure on ESPN’s “First Take” before leaving to join Fox and host “Undisputed” before leaving Fox late last year.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) reacts after scoring a 3-pointer against Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (10).© Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Now, Bayless primarily shares his opinions through tweets or posts videos on YouTube. He did this on Tuesday when the Fever lost to the Atlanta Dream with a score of 91-90. The Dream took the lead with nine seconds remaining after Kelsey Mitchell fouled Rhyne Howard, who then made both free throws to give the Dream a 91-90 advantage.
During the Fever’s next possession, Clark was the inbounder and lobbed the ball to Natasha Howard. However, Howard’s shot was blocked by Nia Coffey. Howard managed to grab her own rebound and attempted a 12-foot shot to win the game, but she missed. Coffey secured the rebound, sealing the victory for the Dream.
Bayless took to X to express his frustration about the play, stating in all caps, “Caitlin Clark has to take the last shot for Indiana when it’s down one with nine seconds left. She did not. Fever lost at home to Atlanta.”
Bayless has built his career on critiquing players in “clutch situations.” Most notably, he has criticized LeBron James for lacking a “clutch gene,” arguing that he avoids those crucial moments. Bayless firmly believes that the best player should take the shot almost every time in those situations.
Bayless’ criticism could also be directed at the coaching staff. While Clark is an excellent passer, as evidenced by her average of double-digit assists, the play did not seem to be designed for her to do anything other than pass the ball. Although the outcome of this game was not favorable, it may serve as a valuable learning experience for Clark and her team as they move forward.
