How Caitlin Clark’s Career Became About More Than Just Basketball

She’s a full-fledged celebrity. A cultural phenomenon. And a mirror to society through sports. Everyone– from journalists to fans to political pundits– have an opinion on who Caitlin Clark is and what is expected of her. But, has anyone actually asked Clark herself? In this episode, Chantel welcomes senior writer Brian Hamilton to discuss his piece, “Can the WNBA’s biggest star just play basketball? Let’s ask Caitlin Clark.” The pair unpacks Clark’s role in advocacy, outside pressure placed on her, and what her day-to-day life actually looks like. But first: Zena, Sabreena, and Chantel break down all the action from Sunday’s four playoff matchups. From A’Ja Wilson’s historic performance to veterans stepping up for several squads, the crew provides their analysis on each opening contest and what to expect in the final games of round one. No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast Network: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/ Sign up for the No Offseason Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/news... 00:00 Intro 03:16 The Stewie Show vs. the Lynx 09:11 Nia Brodie Rises to the Occasion  14:52 A’Ja Wilson’s Historic Masterclass 17:57 The Fever’s Front-Court Struggles 22:02 Bonner’s Veteran Presence Leads Dream 31:16 Second Quarter Surge: Valkyries Claim Game One 41:02 Brian Hamilton Feature: Can Caitlin Clark Just Play Basketball? 44:13 From Grocery Store Appearances to Nike Campaigns 49:33 Setting the Tone: Caitlin Clark’s Attitude Amid Controversies  54:46 Queen of Indy: How the City Claimed Caitlin as Its Own 59:24 What is Caitlin Clark’s Role in Addressing Social Issues? 01:04:54 Money Talks….Will Players? Related links and articles: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7626... https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7633... https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7632... Follow and listen to the audio podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast... Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.com Show Links: -YouTube: @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason [  / tanooffseason  ] -TikTok: @no_offseason [  / no_offseason  ] Credits: -Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings -Layshia on IG: @layshiac -Annie on X: @anniecostabile -Produced by Taneka Burrell -Executive Produced by Andrea B. Scott Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub: https://sports.yahoo.com/womens-sport... Full Episodes Playlist:    • Full Episodes | No Offseason: The Athletic...   Shorts Playlist:    • Shorts   Thumbnail: Michael Reaves / Staff / Getty Images Sport via Getty Images Sport Ethan Miller / Staff / Getty Images Sport via Getty Images Sport