‘You’re a hooper’ – The heartfelt advice Barack Obama gave Caitlin Clark about WNBA stardom

Former president of the United States Barack Obama offered some important advice to WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark.

Obama met Clark for the first time at the WNBA All-Star weekend, where the Indiana Fever guard was making her debut.

Clark has become one of the biggest names in American sports since entering the league, a path that comes with several challenges.

Having spent eight years as the US President, Obama recognises the difficulty of being in the public eye more than most.

The 64-year-old shared some wise words with Clark about ignoring outside noise and focusing on enjoying basketball.

The advice Barack Obama gave Caitlin Clark at WNBA All-Star Game

Caitlin Clark is still only 24, but she has already been the biggest name in women’s basketball for three years.

Although there are many benefits to her stardom, Clark deals with more attention and criticism than any other WNBA player.

Barack Obama encouraged the Indiana Fever star not to become distracted by the media static and “lose that joy” for the game.

“Oh, hey Caitlin! How are you? Really nice to meet you,” Obama approached Clark and said. “You’re great, you’re fantastic. Don’t let all this nonsense get you down.

“You know, I always say, one of the things that was luckiest for me was I didn’t get famous ’til I was like 45. So I was an old a– man.

‘You’re a hooper’ – The heartfelt

“I mean you’re my daughter’s age; they’ve not had that much immersion and nonsense. So don’t lose that joy.

“The game’s like the game. And you’re a hooper, and you hoop. You’re always hooping! And you’re on a nice little run right now.”

Clark is enjoying an excellent 2026 season, recognised by her first All-Star appearance, and the Fever are at the top of the standings.

Read more: