In an interview for People magazine that was published in conjunction with her new book "Coming Home,"
Griner acknowledged that the WNBA will experience a tipping point with the entrance of the 2024 draft class.
The current level of excitement surrounding Caitlin and a few others is absolutely great for the league. Griner acknowledged the influx of talented individuals.
The forward for the Phoenix Mercury reflected on the arduous journey she endured upon entering the WNBA a decade ago, when she was the top overall pick in the 2013 Draft.
Griner, like Clark, was hailed as a "generational" talent, but she, too, had to undergo significant game tweaks in order to thrive in the NBA.
Transitioning from college to the professional level is unique. The statistics started to fall down for me when I went from being number one," Griner recounted.
While playing for the Baylor Lady Bears, the standout forward averaged 22.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.
However, throughout her time with the Mercury, she only managed 14.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and one assist. After reflecting on her "eye-opener" of a first professional season,
Griner cautioned Clark that the level of competition she would encounter would be drastically different from her college days. "You're competing with mature ladies.
They provide for their family in this way. The [game] isn't the only motivation here. According to the player, this is how they make a living.