Some vitriol toward Caitlin Clark is ‘self-induced,’ ESPN’s Stephen A Smith says

Some vitriol toward Caitlin Clark is ‘self-induced,’ ESPN’s Stephen A Smith says

Smith compared Clark to Larry Bird

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, #22, celebrates after scoring a 3-pointer during a game between the Indiana Fever and the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on June 14, 2025. (Grace Smith-Imagn Images)

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, #22, dribbles the ball while Connecticut Sun guard Jacy Sheldon, #4, defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on June 17, 2025. (Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images)

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, #22, looks on during the second half against the Connecticut Sun at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on June 17, 2025. (Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images)

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, #22, celebrates after a three-point basket against the Connecticut Sun in the second half of a WNBA basketball game in Indianapolis on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)