Here we go again.
Caitlin Clark hasn’t even played a regular-season game in the WNBA yet, and already — the national media is doubting her.

The latest insult? A wildly disrespectful WNBA power ranking that placed the Indiana Fever near the bottom of the league — as if Clark didn’t just finish one of the most dominant college careers in history and walk into one of the most exciting young cores in the WNBA.

“Rookie hype doesn’t equal wins,” the rankings claim.
But anyone who’s watched Caitlin Clark play knows — this is more than hype.

Did Everyone Just Forget What Caitlin Did in College?

Let’s recap real quick:

NCAA all-time leading scorer (men’s OR women’s).

40-foot range.

Elite passing.

Dragged Iowa to back-to-back national title games.

Transformed the women’s game into a must-watch product.

And now she’s paired with Aliyah Boston, the 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year, NaLyssa Smith, a walking double-double, and a Fever squad that finally has direction under coach Christie Sides.

But sure, let’s rank them 10th out of 12.
Make it make sense.

The “Rookie Tax” Is Real… But So Is the Bias

Yes, we get it — rookies need to prove themselves.
But this ranking feels less like cautious analysis and more like old-school gatekeeping.

Why are we pretending Caitlin Clark isn’t one of the most polished, pro-ready rookies the league has ever seen? Why are we acting like she won’t shift defensive schemes, boost attendance, or be a game-changer from day one?

“She hasn’t played a minute in the league yet.”
True.
“She has to adjust to pro defenders.”
Also true.
But ask yourself this: if she were a male prospect with this résumé, would we be questioning it like this?

The Fever Deserve More Respect — Period

This isn’t just about Clark.

It’s about a team that’s been rebuilding the right way.
A team that drafted well, added smart pieces, and is finally positioned to make a real push in 2025.

Caitlin Clark brings star power, but this is a full unit:

Aliyah Boston anchoring the paint.

Clark stretching the floor and running the offense.

Smith and Berger providing versatility and grit.

They’ve got talent. They’ve got chemistry.
And now, they’ve got a chip on their shoulder — thanks to lazy rankings and premature doubt.

Final Word: Watch Them Work

If you’re counting out the Indiana Fever this early, go ahead.
Just don’t act surprised when they’re blowing past expectations by midseason.

The disrespect won’t last forever.
Caitlin Clark doesn’t need your approval — she’ll earn it on the court.
And the Fever? They’re about to make the league listen.