Caitlin Clark being fouled hard is ok, but the overreaction to it isn't

Welcome to the big leagues, Caitlin Clark.

Everyone in the WNBA is just a little bit bigger, a little bit faster, and a little bit stronger than they are in the NCAA.

And yes, they all play a little bit tougher and foul a little bit harder.

When a rookie enters any league, they’re not always introduced with open arms, but instead with harder knocks.

This sentiment has definitely applied to Clark’s introduction to the WNBA, as players like Chennedy Carter have been seen roughing up the rookie star.

However, the fouls against Clark don’t separate her from the rest of the league like ball handling and shooting skills do.

Most, if not all, rookies get roughed up when they enter the big leagues.

Clark is part of one of the best rookie classes that WNBA has ever seen.

Her not-so-warm welcome has been covered by sports media in an atrocious way, defaming the players who have fouled her and calling for increased protection of Clark on the court.

The worst side of sports media has been brought out, sadly highlighted by popular personalities like Pat McAfee.

Granted, Clark is undeniably getting hit hard; in the paint, beyond the arc, and before the ball is even put into play.

Calling for players to get fined or suspended, though? It’s a step too far.

When Carter had the wildly tough play on Clark, it was called as a fragrant foul, which is what it was. After that, everyone should have just moved on. Let a dead dog lie.

There’s no need to bring further attention to the tough plays against Clark, they’re happening around the league. Former Stanford star Cameron Brink is being slaughtered in the paint while she plays in her rookie season for the Los Angeles Sparks.

Granted, Clark is garnering more attention for the WNBA than any player before her, even more than Sue Bird brought in 2002.

Refs are doing their jobs though, players are playing their games. Clark will get acclimated to the league and the fouls will lessen as she toughens up, and gets some experience under her belt.

She isn't the only reason people are watching the WNBA. Brink, Angel Reese, Diana Taurasi, Sabrina Ionescu, and everyone who came before them are a part of it too.

Read more: