Many surprised as LeBron James criticizes WNBA Star .

The rise of women’s basketball in America has been significantly propelled by the popularity of players like Caitlin Clark, a former Iowa guard whose performance and charisma have attracted massive viewership to the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.

Clark’s success and marketability, alongside other standout players like Angel Reese, have been pivotal in drawing attention to women’s sports. After being drafted to the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, Clark faces immense pressure to deliver at the professional level.

In a recent episode of his “Mind The Game” podcast with JJ Redick, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James shared his support for Clark, recognizing the challenges she faces. James, who entered the NBA with similar expectations and scrutiny, offered advice and encouragement:

“The one thing that I love that she’s bringing to her sport is more people want to watch. More people want to tune in. Don’t get it twisted, don’t get it f—– up, Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things are gonna happen for the WNBA.

But for her individually, I don’t think she should get involved on nothing that’s being said. Just go have fun, enjoy. But I’m rooting for Caitlin because I’ve been in that seat before. I’ve walked that road before. I hope she kills, I hope Aliyah Boston does amazing, I hope they do great.”

James further empathized with Clark by drawing parallels to his own son’s experiences with public scrutiny, highlighting the unfair pressures placed on young athletes pursuing their dreams. He noted:

“You know I’m just kind of in this mode right now because I’m getting the same thing from watching my son, who’s a 19-year old, getting a lot of animosity and hatred towards him when he’s just a kid trying to live out his dream. There’s a very small number of men and women that actually get to live out their dream of playing a professional sport. And we have grown ass men and women out here doing whatever they can to try and make sure that does not happen. That is the weirdest thing in the world, but it is what it is and I’m glad that Caitlin has a great head on her shoulders.”

James’ perspective underscores the importance of maintaining focus and positivity in the face of criticism, especially amplified by social media. His support for Clark highlights the camaraderie among athletes who understand the unique pressures of high expectations.

Meanwhile, LeBron James has his own career decisions to contemplate. As the offseason progresses, James faces the choice of opting into the final year of his contract with the Lakers, opting out to become an unrestricted free agent, or negotiating a new deal with the Lakers.

All options are reportedly still being considered as he weighs his future in the NBA.