Diana Taurasi makes shocking U-turn after controversial Caitlin Clark takes

Diana Taurasi, a prominent figure in the WNBA, initially made critical remarks about Caitlin Clark during the NCAA tournament, echoing sentiments expressed by other league legends. However, Taurasi has recently reversed her stance, offering unexpected praise for the Indiana Fever star.

During a press conference preceding the Phoenix Mercury’s training camp, reporters questioned Taurasi about various topics, including her previous comments regarding Clark. Taurasi reiterated her earlier statements, asserting that she stood by her words.

Additionally, Taurasi commended Clark and expressed optimism for her future in the league, emphasizing her hopes for Clark’s success.

“The new fans are sensitive these days, you can’t say anything. It’s kinda like going from kindergarten to first grade, there’s a learning adjustment.

“We go from high school to college there’s a learning adjustment. I don’t think I said anything that wasn’t factually correct. Like anything, greatness is gonna translate and she’s proven that at every level. I don’t see it being any different in the WNBA,” Taurasi said.

What did Diana Taurasi say about Caitlin Clark that got fans riled up?

Why Diana Taurasi is working so hard to stay on court this season and beyond - ESPN

The rivalry between Diana Taurasi and Caitlin Clark escalated during the Final Four matchup between Iowa and UConn. As a former UConn player, Taurasi sided with the Huskies’ Paige Bueckers when asked whom she would choose to build a WNBA team around, rather than selecting Clark.

Taurasi further intensified the situation by issuing a warning to Clark during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter.

“Reality is coming. There’s levels to this thing, and that’s just life. We all went through it. You see it on the NBA side, and you’re going to see it on this side.

“You look superhuman playing 18-year-olds, but you’re going to come with some grown women who’ve been playing professional basketball for a long time,” Taurasi said.

Phoenix Mercury use Caitlin Clark to promote WNBA matchup

Diana Taurasi’s team, the Phoenix Mercury, seized the opportunity presented by her comments about Caitlin Clark to generate buzz around their upcoming matchup against the Indiana Fever in the upcoming season. Leveraging Taurasi’s status as “The GOAT,” they hyped up her first game against “The ROOK,” Clark.

Clark’s influence on the WNBA has been profound since the draft, with record-breaking viewership numbers and her jerseys selling out within an hour. Teams have even raised ticket prices for their home games against the Fever, recognizing the draw of Clark’s presence.

Another significant impact of Clark’s arrival is the potential increase in sponsorships and the value of the WNBA’s next TV rights deal. Her remarkable popularity and record-breaking status make her a standout figure, possibly even surpassing other athletes like Tyrese Haliburton in Indiana.

Nike’s signing of Clark to a staggering $28 million deal and the upcoming release of her own signature shoe further solidify her star power, despite not having played a WNBA game yet. Her influence has already reached unprecedented levels, showcasing her potential to transform the landscape of women’s basketball.