Shaquille O'Neal comments on Caitlin Clark's WNBA challenges
4 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 4:49 AM
Last updated Aug 7, 2026
Shaquille O’Neal discussed Caitlin Clark’s reception in the WNBA during an interview with CNBC Sport. He emphasized that the intense physicality Clark faces is a typical test for star players, noting that it represents a 'rite of passage'. Clark, who recently scored a career-high 45 points against the Seattle Storm on July 17, has consistently drawn attention for her performance despite being targeted by opponents. O’Neal suggested that Clark needs to exhibit resilience and let her play speak for her to secure her place in the league.
- •O'Neal calls physical play a 'rite of passage' for elite players.
- •Clark recently scored 45 points in a game against the Seattle Storm.
- •Discussion highlights ongoing treatment of Clark by opponents.
- •Clark's rookie season includes setting the single-season assist record.
- 4:49 AMYahoo Sports — Fever’s Caitlin Clark receives blunt advice from Shaq about ‘rite of passage’
- 6:45 PMYahoo Sports — Shaq thinks Caitlin Clark is going through 'rites of passage' in WNBA
- 5:39 PMYahoo Sports — Shaquille O'Neal weighs in on Caitlin Clark situation, calls hard fouls a rite of passage
- 3:20 PMYahoo Sports — ‘She needs to toughen up’ – Shaquille O’Neal weighs in on WNBA players’ treatment of Caitlin Clark
"NBA figures continue to debate Caitlin Clark’s welcome to professional basketball. Caitlin Clark didn’t just enter the WNBA, she brought a tidal wave of eyeballs, sellout arenas, and drama.
"NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has been a vocal supporter of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark since she entered the WNBA.
"Shaquille O'Neal believes Caitlin Clark can run the WNBA if she's tough enough.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 7, 2026, 4:49 AMFever’s Caitlin Clark receives blunt advice from Shaq about ‘rite of passage’
NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal has been a vocal supporter of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark since she entered the WNBA.
- Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 6:45 PMShaq thinks Caitlin Clark is going through 'rites of passage' in WNBA
Shaq has weighed in on the ongoing Caitlin Clark discourse.
- Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 5:39 PMShaquille O'Neal weighs in on Caitlin Clark situation, calls hard fouls a rite of passage
Shaquille O'Neal believes Caitlin Clark can run the WNBA if she's tough enough.
- Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 3:20 PM‘She needs to toughen up’ – Shaquille O’Neal weighs in on WNBA players’ treatment of Caitlin Clark
NBA figures continue to debate Caitlin Clark’s welcome to professional basketball. Caitlin Clark didn’t just enter the WNBA, she brought a tidal wave of eyeballs, sellout arenas, and drama.
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