NBA Legend Says WNBA Players Should Be ‘Kissing The Ground’ Caitlin Clark Walks On Amid Rising Physical Play Against Indiana Fever Star

Caitlin Clark’s extended absence has sparked renewed debate about the physical toll of the WNBA’s style of play. After going injury-free for over 170 games in her career, she endured three injuries in just two months. Many former WNBA players defended the league’s physicality, emphasizing that tough play has always been integral to the game. In contrast, several NBA players have publicly criticized this notion.

Iowa star has gained a powerful ally in a former NBA legend who publicly criticized players for their rough treatment of her. He urged them to stop fouling her and instead show respect for her remarkable talent.

NBA Legend Thrashes Physical Play On Caitlin Clark

The WNBA’s rise is much credited to the Fever superstar guard. The player’s impact in the league was clearly visible through media rights and merchandise sales. She is the most marketable product in the league, and her presence and absence impact the ratings.

Understanding the business end of the league, Celtics star Bob Cousy had some ‘mantra’ for the WNBA players. He praised the Fever guard and mentioned that the players should not foul her to keep her out of the game.

“It’s a saleable product and Clark’s done a really good job selling it. It’s enjoyable. My son-in-law is from Indiana, and he’s a Clark fan. She’s exceptional. She’s had a tremendous impact on that league and their earning potential. They should be kissing the ground she walks on, not trying to foul her and get her out of the game,” Cousy told The Boston Globe. 

Celtics' legend Bob Cousy loves what Caitlin Clark has done for the WNBA.

(via @BostonGlobe ) pic.twitter.com/3wHe2CPyrZ

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) August 10, 2025

Caitlin Clark’s absence affected the All-Star game’s viewership, and even the league’s ratings were down. Even though she was present on the sidelines for the Fever games, fans are missing her competitive fire and gameplay on the court.

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While Cousy’s comment came during CBA negotiations and CC’s absence, the narrative had been running in the league for a long time. Many celebrities and analysts complained about the league’s physicality and the treatment given to its prized asset.  

Celebrities Showing Support For Caitlin Clark

Bob Cousy is not the only star supporting CC against physical play. Even basketball analysts bashed the league for the number of hard fouls on the star. White House Staffer Sean McLean even asked for a federal investigation into the fouls on Caitlin Clark. He called it a hostile workspace for the former Iowa star.   

Players like LeBron James, Tyrese Haliburton, Patrick Mahomes, and Tom Brady showered praise on the Fever guard for her impact and even called her the GOAT of the ‘W’. Former WNBA players like Rebecca Lobo, Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, and Nancy Lieberman lauded the youngster’s impact and her gameplay, which changed the dynamics of the league.