Something feels different about the way Caitlin Clark is playing basketball right now. Her impressive college career seems to be trapped inside a new system. 

Former NBA player Mychal Thompson criticized how the team is managing its young star. Thompson made his remarks during a June 8 appearance on Jason Whitlock’s show, Fearless. The same clip was shared by Whitlock on X. 

Thompson used comparisons from other major sports to emphasize his point, saying, “They’ve taken away Caitlin’s superpowers. Never seen this in any sport. It’s like taking a serve away from Serena Williams. It’s like taking the great Larry Allen and turning him into a long-snapper.”

The core of Thompson's argument rests on how superstars should be utilized. In his view, great coaches build their entire system around their star player's strengths rather than pushing the player to adapt to a pre-existing structure. 

Thompson noted that coaches like Pat Riley adjusted their philosophy to showcase Magic’s "Showtime" style, which is what Indiana should be doing. Instead, Thompson believes the current structured approach is hurting both the team and Clark. 

The Fever currently holds a 6–5 record, placing them 3rd in the Eastern Conference. Clark is averaging 18.7 points and around 8 assists per game. The team’s overall record is decent, but Thompson insists that Clark’s dominance has dipped. 

However, he did not place all the blame on the coaching staff. Thompson added that Clark has areas to improve, such as her defense and cutting down on turnovers.

While the tactical debate plays out on television, the tension has spilled over onto the actual sidelines.

Fever and Caitlin Clark dismiss tension as trade rumors continue

A major point of discussion emerged from a sideline exchange during a timeout in a Fever loss against the Portland Storm. Head coach Stephanie White was seen pointing her finger while speaking toward Clark. 

Both of them pushed back against the negative narratives during the next post-game press conference. Clark dismissed the outside drama, explaining that the moment was just about people who desperately want to win. 

She stated that White has her back more than anybody and called the media speculation about a rift wrong. White also stated that her relationship with the young guard is great and she fully supports her franchise player.

Despite those public denials, speculation grew that some outlets claimed the Fever were looking to trade Clark to the Los Angeles Sparks. 

Clark addressed the rumors on June 7, noting that the team does not pay attention to outside noise and remains focused on improving together.

What do you think is the best way for Indiana to use Clark's skills?

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Written by

Utsav Sinha

Edited by

Kaamna Dwivedi