LeBron James shares 2-word message for Caitlin Clark detractors after Fever star spoils Barbie Night for Angel Reese

LeBron James admired Caitlin Clark’s performance on Friday, as the Indiana Fever overpowered the Chicago Sky in their much-anticipated final regular-season clash. While Clark and Angel Reese had standout moments, the Fever triumphed over the Sky, 100-81.

Clark delivered a career-high 31 points, shooting a stellar 8-of-14 from the field and 5-of-9 from three-point range. She also contributed 12 assists and had just three turnovers, earning a plus-23 rating, the second-highest for the Fever.

James took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend Caitlin Clark against her critics following another remarkable performance.

“CAITLIN CLARK!!!!! HI HATERS,” LeBron wrote.

Caitlin Clark reached her career high in just 32 minutes and 25 seconds. With the victory, the Fever moved into sixth place in the standings with a 16-16 record, tying them with the Phoenix Mercury but holding the tiebreaker.

The Fever have been on a roll, winning five of their last six games since the Olympic break and are gaining momentum as the playoffs draw near. They also secured the season series against the Sky, 3-1.

In defeat, Angel Reese, also known as the "Bayou Barbie," achieved her 23rd double-double, setting a WNBA rookie record with 10 points and 11 rebounds during the league's first Barbie-themed night.

Chicago’s record dropped to 11-19 with their fifth consecutive loss, putting their playoff hopes in serious jeopardy as they cling to the final playoff spot, with the 10-20 Atlanta Dream close behind.

What LeBron James advised Caitlin Clark earlier this season

Earlier this season, LeBron James shared advice for Caitlin Clark on handling the pressure that comes with high expectations and a prominent spotlight.

On the "Mind the Game" podcast, LeBron advised Clark to be a “horse.”

"My advice to Caitlin, and my advice to anyone that comes in with this level of notoriety, out-of-this-world expectation, whatever the case may be: Be a horse, man,” he said. “Put your blinders on, go to work, show up to work, punch your clock in, prepare yourself, work on your game, work on your craft.”

He also urged Clark to learn from more experienced players:

"Kind of keep your mouth shut and just learn from the vets. When they ask, voice your opinion if they want your opinion early because everybody is looking for you to say anything and they're gonna splice it and cut it and make it a negative thing.”

LeBron expressed his support for Clark, having faced similar pressure as a rookie star.

“Caitlin Clark is the reason why a lot of great things is gonna happen for the WNBA,” LeBron said. “I'm rooting for Caitlin because I've been in that seat before. I've walked that road before. I hope she kills."

Clark has since proven herself as one of the top players in the WNBA, breaking the rookie records for assists and 3-pointers, and potentially leading the Fever to a playoff berth.