Caitlin Clark and the anecdote her parents kept from her until recently: We can’t let a girl be MVP
We can’t get enough of Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark, one of basketball’s rising stars and Time’s 2024 Athlete of the Year, recently revealed an inspiring story from her youth that her parents had kept from her until now. Speaking at the Massachusetts Conference for Women with Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts, Clark shared an anecdote about her early days competing in boys’ basketball leagues.
Clark grew up playing against boys because girls’ leagues were scarce where she lived. She explained, “I grew up playing with boys, and we never talked about how that was different or that was weird – that was just normal.” Competing at a high level early on set the stage for her remarkable career.
Caitlin Clark and Tyrese Haliburton: The unexpected duo that stole the cameras at the Indy Classic
During her conversation, Clark disclosed an incident her parents, Brent and Anne, only recently shared with her. Her father, who coached her team in a boys’ league, once faced pushback when league officials considered naming her the Most Valuable Player.
“They wanted to make me MVP of the league,” Clark recounted. “And these parents were like, ‘We can’t let a girl be the MVP of the boys’ basketball league.'”
Despite the opposition, Clark‘s talent on the court was undeniable. With a mix of humility and humor, she added, “I was just better than all of them,” which drew cheers and applause from the audience.
Instilling Confidence and Breaking Barriers
Clark credited her confidence to her upbringing, emphasizing how her parents encouraged her to chase her dreams without limitations. “My parents never told me, ‘You can’t do this or you can’t do that,'” she said. That mindset helped her overcome challenges and fostered her belief in herself, even when others doubted her.
She encouraged young girls to remain self-assured, saying, “When I have failed, I’ve been confident in myself. For the younger girls that are growing up and wanting to be something, just be confident in yourself.”
A Historic Year in Basketball
Clark also reflected on her whirlwind year, which included leading the Iowa Hawkeyes to the NCAA Women’s Championship game, being selected first overall in the WNBA Draft, and winning WNBA Rookie of the Year. “It’s been crazy to think about how much my life has changed,” she said.
As a rookie with the Indiana Fever, Clark started all 40 games, averaging 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. She also set a WNBA record for the most assists in a season, demonstrating her incredible talent and hard work.
MORE in MARCA
Angel Reese delivers the final checkmate to Caitlin Clark after appearance with the Queen of Elite… Rihanna: ‘She is the one” | MarcaMarca
Lebron James and NBA players face surprising competition as OnlyFans star bags staggering income | MarcaMarca
Despite her many achievements, Clark remains humble and grateful. “I just try to remind myself how grateful I am… there are so many people that would have loved to be in my shoes.”
Caitlin Clark‘s story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination, inspiring a new generation of athletes to reach for their dreams and break down barriers along the way.
Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark insane dribbling skills impress new head coach Stephanie White
This could be the start of a perfect match made in heaven
Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark insane dribbling skills impress new head coach Stephanie WhiteAP
Indiana Fever’sCaitlin Clark wants to take her team to new heights for the 2025 season after a very impressive 2024, when the Fever returned to the playoffs (they lost to the Connecticut Sun in the first round).
The Fever caused sensation last season with their play on the court, with Clark setting numerous records on her way to winning Rookie of the Year honors and joining teammates Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell as All-Stars.
