Caitlin Clark is used to being the one admired.

Her logo threes, fiery competitiveness, and record-breaking stats have redefined what’s possible in women’s college basketball. But in a recent sit-down interview ahead of her rookie WNBA season with the Indiana Fever, the conversation flipped — and Caitlin was the one being asked who she looks up to.

“Is there a woman athlete whose game you admire?”

Her answer was thoughtful, heartfelt, and showed once again that Clark isn’t just a baller — she’s a student of the game.

Caitlin Clark’s Answer: “Too Many to Name — But One Comes to Mind…”

Without hesitation, Caitlin responded:

“There are honestly so many women I admire, but if I had to choose one… Sue Bird. I grew up watching her. The way she controlled a game, made her teammates better, and led without needing to dominate the scoring — that always stuck with me.”

Clark continued:

“Her court vision was just unreal. I try to model parts of my passing game off what she used to do — threading the needle, always knowing where everyone is. She made it look effortless.”

Why Sue Bird?

The choice makes perfect sense. Sue Bird is a four-time WNBA champion, five-time Olympic gold medalist, and widely considered one of the greatest point guards — male or female — to ever play the game.

While Clark is known for her scoring explosions, her passing and playmaking are arguably her most underrated weapons. Like Bird, she thrives in transition, sees plays before they happen, and keeps her teammates involved no matter how many points she puts up.

Clark also added:

“I think sometimes people forget that greatness isn’t just buckets. It’s consistency. It’s leadership. That’s what I respect about Sue.”

Other Names Caitlin Clark Mentioned

While Sue Bird took the top spot, Clark didn’t stop there. She also shouted out a few other legends and current stars:

Diana Taurasi – “Her toughness is unmatched. I love that edge she brings.”

Sabrina Ionescu – “We’ve trained together a bit. She’s someone I’ve watched closely.”

Maya Moore – “What she stood for — both on and off the court — is inspiring.”

And of course, she didn’t leave out her college and Olympic teammate, Breanna Stewart:

“Playing with Stewie is a dream. She’s so efficient, so smart. I learn something new every time we share the floor.”

From Admirer to Peer

What’s wild is this: the athletes Caitlin once watched as a kid? She’s now sharing courts, locker rooms, and highlight reels with them.

“It’s surreal sometimes,” she admitted. “I used to watch these women on TV. Now I’m here, competing at the same level. I just want to make the most of it — and give that same inspiration to the next generation.”

Final Thoughts: Greatness Recognizes Greatness

Caitlin Clark may be a generational talent, but she’s also grounded. She knows she’s standing on the shoulders of legends — women who built the WNBA brick by brick, year after year.

And her willingness to show respect for those who came before her? That’s the kind of leadership that makes a future icon.