Caitlin Clark has been one of the biggest stars in the WNBA this season, and she is only a rookie. The reigning all-time scorer in NCAA basketball history has transitioned to the professional world in a big way and has already been securing more records.
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Clark recently set the WNBA record for most assists in a game with 19, and she is one of two rookies invited to participate in the All-Star Game along with fellow rookie star Angel Reese.
On top of both playing for Team WNBA in the All-Star Game, Clark was invited to participate in the 3-point Contest during Friday's Skills Competition. Despite the invitation, Clark declined. She has now given a reason behind her declining.
Clark spoke to reporters about why she declined to participate in the 3-point Contest.
"Honestly. I just need rest. I've been playing basketball for a year straight. It's not an easy thing to just show up to, and shoot off of a rack. It's not something I've ever done before. It's not something that I've had a lot of time to practice. I've just been focusing on helping my team win games," Clark stated.
The year straight basketball play she is referring to has to do with her final season with the Iowa Hawkeyes, which ended in April. She engaged in the 2024 WNBA Draft right after that and immediately was thrust into practicing for preseason with the Indiana Fever.
Clark has not stopped playing basketball since then, as training with the Fever, preseason, and the regular season have all gone on consecutively for months. It makes sense that she would need a break. Even if she is playing in the WNBA All-Star Game, she is also taking some time to relax, which is warranted.
"I'm just enjoying this break. I think there's going to be plenty of opportunity for me to do that at some point ... the biggest thing for me is I need a break. I need to take some time for myself to enjoy what I want to do. At times that can be tough being in the position that I'm in, but I think it's going to be healthiest for me," Clark added.
Clark was been under the microscope since she entered the WNBA, so it would be believed that she needs a break to unwind. Clark is still playing in the WNBA All-Star Game, which takes place on Saturday, July 20 at 8:30 p.m. EST. The game will be nationally televised on ABC.
About the writer
Located in Los Angeles County, James Brizuela has been immersed in Southern California sports for over 30 years. He holds ... Read more
