Golfer and social media influencer Paige Spiranac said she's "disappointed" but isn't "surprised" to see the "hate towards" NCAA all-time leading scorer and projected No. 1 overall 2024 WNBA Draft pick Caitlin Clark.
Spiranac shared a post referencing "vicious" responses directed at Clark after Iowa's 87-75 loss to South Carolina in the NCAA Women's March Madness Final on Sunday (April 7).
"The hate towards Caitlin Clark from current and former players is disappointing but not surprising. Women can be absolutely vicious to other women while also preaching empowering the next generation. I’ve seen it first hand but we must remember a rising tide lifts all boats," Spiranac wrote.
Spiranac then credited South Carolina coach Dawn Staley for her comments praising Clark's contribution to women's college basketball after the Gamecocks' win.
"I thought her comments after the game were supportive and kind! Caitlin has handled all this attention and pressure with so much grace and it was nice of Staley to acknowledge her impact," Spiranac wrote in response to a follower.
Sunday's March Madness Final was the most viewed women's sporting event in history, peaking at 24 million viewers and averaging 18.7 million, which was a larger than the men's final for the first time in history. Clark recorded 30 points, including 18 in the first period, eight rebounds and five assists during what served as her final collegiate game before entering the 2024 WNBA Draft.
The 22-year-old is projected to be selected No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever next Monday (April 15). Spiranac gained a massive following in recent years amid her self-promotion for "sexualizing" women's golf, which has also garnered criticism.
The former University of Arizona and San Diego State University standout went pro in May 2016 and completed her first LPGA Qualifying Tournament, but didn't earn a card to play on the circuit, in August 2016.