Caitlin Clark, the WNBA sensation who seems to break records as effortlessly as some of us lose socks in the laundry, is once again proving she’s not just about basketball. This time, she’s opening up about something that doesn’t show up in stat sheets or highlight reels: mental health. Yes, the same Caitlin Clark who makes no-look passes look like second nature is reminding everyone that athletes are humans, too—and spoiler alert: they have feelings.
Since her days as the University of Iowa’s golden girl, Clark has lived under the unrelenting glare of the national spotlight. In her debut WNBA season, she helped shatter viewership records and league attendance figures faster than a buzzer-beater from half-court. But, surprise! Being a superstar isn’t all glitz, glamour, and MVP trophies (though she’s probably got space cleared for a few more). Turns out, it’s exhausting—especially when paired with a grueling 40-game season and playoffs.
On Tuesday, Clark reminded us that even superheroes need time to recharge, candidly discussing the impact of the spotlight and the critical role mental health has played in her life.
“(Mental health) has been very instrumental in shaping my career,” Clark shared, revealing that her team at Iowa had a sports psychologist and therapist on standby—not just for pre-game jitters but for life’s curveballs that fans will never see. “Nobody watching on TV knows about it,” she added.
Oh, the irony: millions cheer her name, but few remember she’s a human being with a life outside of basketball. “At the end of the day, a lot of people forget we’re humans,” she emphasized. “We have problems outside of sports… and we’re dealing with that on top of trying to perform at the highest level.”
In classic Caitlin fashion, she wrapped it up with some wholesome advice. “It’s okay to not be okay. But also, tell [your therapist] about the great things that are happening in your life.” A master of balance on and off the court, folks.
Rookie Year Struggles: Beyond the Highlight Reel
Even in her record-breaking rookie season—earning WNBA Rookie of the Year, setting a single-season assist record, and averaging an eyebrow-raising 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds—Clark faced challenges that even her silky jump shot couldn’t fix.
In a post-game presser back in July, she got real about adjusting to the chaos of life in the WNBA. Moving to a new city? Check. Joining a new league? Double check. Being expected to do it all while the world watches? Triple check.
“I’m trying to navigate moving to a new city by myself, I’m trying to navigate playing in a new league on top of everything else,” she said. Oh, and by the way, she still found time to torch defenders while making it all look effortless.
Clark didn’t sugarcoat the reality of mental health struggles, especially for young people. “I think the biggest thing is, don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she urged, proving once again that her leadership extends far beyond the hardwood.
From Role Model to Advocate
Caitlin Clark has always been a role model—whether she’s draining threes from the logo or inspiring young athletes with her poise and grit. Now, by speaking up about mental health, she’s using her platform to remind everyone that even the best in the game need a timeout sometimes.
So the next time you’re marveling at her game-winning assists or jaw-dropping fadeaways, remember: even Caitlin Clark has moments when life gets overwhelming. If Wonder Woman can admit she needs help, maybe we mere mortals can, too.
