On her first night working for NBC, WNBA star Caitlin Clark was given an unfavorable comparison by a colleague that many viewed as a snub.
Clark joined the ‘Basketball Night in America’ before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Flanked by NBA legends Carmelo Anthony and Reggie Miller, Clark offered her insight into the game before the contest tipped off.
When offered a chance to praise Clark further, show host Maria Taylor asked Miller to compare her to an NBA player from when he was playing – or one who is playing right now.
‘I like Payton Pritchard from Boston, the way he’s able to handle the basketball, he makes good shots when the shot clock’s running down – a lot like this young lady right here,’ Miller responded.
While Miller’s answer was surprising enough, it was accentuated by Clark’s change of expression – going from a beaming smile to a look of extreme disappointment.
Caitlin Clark looked visibly annoyed by a comparison made by one of her NBC colleagues
NBA legend Reggie Miller (R) compared Clark’s game to Celtics guard Payton Pritchard
While a role player, Pritchard has significantly improved his game and has an NBA title
Join the debate
Was Caitlin Clark right to feel slighted by Reggie Miller’s comparison, or was it fair analysis?
Fans noticed and commented on the sudden change in temperament from the 24-year-old.
‘She did not like that comparison lmao,’ wrote one user on X.
Another remarked, ‘She was absolutely disgusted!!!’
‘I get CC being mad at this but I don’t think the average NBA fan understands how good Payton Pritchard has become,’ noted Barstool Sports’ Jack McGuire.
It’s a bit of an odd comparison considering the two players’ statures.
Clark is one of – if not the – most popular players in the WNBA and had a decorated college career before being selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Pritchard, on the other hand, is a role player within the Celtics organization and was drafted 26th overall.
The one thing Pritchard may have over Clark is that he’s won a title as part of the Boston team that won the 2024 NBA Finals. Clark, meanwhile, has yet to win a championship at the professional or college level.
