“Like Prime Scottie Pippen”: UConn’s Nika Muhl Shadowing and Keeping Caitlin Clark Quiet in Final 4’s 1st Half Catches Fans’ Attention

Published 04/05/2024, 10:33 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Is it the day when Caitlin Clark and Co. finally end their journey in the 2024 March Madness? Gino Auriemma has sent out his players in their best forms today, especially their senior guard Nika Muhl. She is following the No. 22 like a shadow, getting physical, and destroying Lisa Bluder’s offensive game plan. Following the same, fans can’t help but look at the Naismith Player of the Year lock up on the hardwood like never before in her entire college career.

While the Huskies may have to pack their bags to return to Storr with a defeat, Nika will remain the player who could make Caitlin Clark sweat tonight. In fact, in the very first half, she was Clark’s worst nightmare. Until the third quarter where she had to take a short trip to the bench after injuring her leg, she was a force to reckon. However, she operated better than Hailey Van Lith against the Naismith Player of the Year.

Nika Muhl bagged 6 points with two shots coming from beyond the arc in the first ten minutes only. At the same time, she stopped Clark from multiple shots and passes as the Iowa star only had 6 points at the hald. No doubt, the entire Arena was all about the No. 10 on UConn’s list.

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After 5 years, finally someone was able to stop Caitlin Clark, leaving the internet stunned

Many parallels are being drawn in tonight’s Final Four game. But some fans broke all boundaries as they brought Nika Muhl next to 6x NBA champion Scottie Pippen. One basketball follower compared Nika Muhl to the Chicago Bulls legend when he used to guard his competitors on the floor like they were nothing.

Clark is often referred to as the female Stephen Curry. But does that mean she should also get that treatment? A fan posted his reaction to UConn’s defense on the 2x National Player of the Year.

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It is clear from Clark’s performance tonight that she is having a rough time. But a fan put it into better words.

While another Clark fan was all about her showing up in the worst timings and reigning over her opponents anyway, he has this to say.

 

Another one gave it a humorous turn with a video by Mark Phillips guarding his friend, who ultimately made all the baskets. But does it mean that Nika Muhl will also end up on the bench with Caitlin Clark reigning over them?

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Last but not least, it would not be a reaction fest for the die-hard fans if they did not mention Hailey Van Lith against Caitlin Clark in their Elite Eight matchup.

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Nika Muhl has proven to the world that Caitlin Clark can be stopped, at least to a point. Whether they win the game tonight or leave the Fieldhouse with defeat in their hands, Gino has a rock on his roster. However, as a senior, she too may move to the professional grounds soon. Until then, let us enjoy the thrilling Final Four and see if UConn will keep its numbers up or not.

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Written by:

Srashti Sharma

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Srashti Sharma is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports, known for her in-depth researching skills. From the very first time that she heard about Kobe Bryant, she herself cultivated a Mamba Mentality. She loves the competitive nature of the sport which fuels her inner sportswoman.
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Edited by:

Pragya Vashisth