The fame and popularity of the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer, Caitlin Clark, is unprecedented. Not only this, but the amount of respect and acknowledgment she has managed to garner from some of the most eminent personalities also speaks volumes about her talent. However, she has been on the receiving end of some flak recently. Nonetheless, there are still some distinguished personalities who applaud her efforts every now and then.

An example of that was witnessed recently when three-time champion South Carolina coach Dawn Staley praised the 6 ft guard.

The 53-year-old was the latest guest for Dan Bernstein, Laurence Holmes, and Leila Rahimi on their podcast, 670 The Score. During this, there was a segment discussing the impact of Caitlin Clark on the viewership of women’s college basketball. Holding Clark responsible for the surge in popularity, Staley said, “Caitlin Clark is the sole reason why viewership has shot through the roof for our game — the sole reason.” 

Later, she also pointed out how their championship game with Iowa broke all viewership records. Commending her team alongside Clark, Staley further added, “Over 18 million people saw our national championship game. They tuned in to see Caitlin Clark. But what did they get? They got Caitlin Clark, and they got South Carolina. They got Kamilla Cardoso, they got MiLaysia Fulwiley. They got a number of players that they can now cheer for.” 

Meanwhile, some of the familiar faces from the NBA world share the same mindset as Staley.

Caitlin Clark receives support from uncharted territories

The entry of Caitlin Clark on the professional court hasn’t exactly been a bed of roses. Seemingly, her new journey has some thorns as well. Still, she receives some much-needed support from some eminent figures despite getting snubbed by some current WNBA players. NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal went on record and stated that Clark is the “best female collegiate player ever.” Further, NBA’s all-time leading scorer LeBron James tweeted, “If you don’t rock with Caitlin Clark, you’re just a FLAT OUT HATER!!!!! Stay far away from them, people!! PLEASE.”

It’s really heartwarming for Clark’s fans to see the greats acknowledging her. The kind of impact and impression she has left on the sport is truly an inspiration for the future generation. It will indeed be enthralling for all to see her repeat it in the WNBA.

Do you agree with the perception of all these greats about Caitlin Clark? Let us know in the comments below.