​Dick Vitale sends strong message to WNBA over Caitlin Clark treatment originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Caitlin Clark continues to rewrite the WNBA record book, but much of the conversation surrounding the Indiana Fever star has centered on the physical play she’s faced throughout her career.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAfter another headline-making incident earlier this season, legendary college basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale has become the latest prominent voice to defend Clark, arguing that the league should be doing more to protect its biggest star. Vitale’s comments came after USA Today columnist Christine Brennan published a strongly worded opinion piece criticizing the WNBA’s handling of Clark and the repeated physical incidents involving the former Iowa standout.Clark added another milestone to her remarkable career during Sunday’s 109-75 victory over the Las Vegas Aces, becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 600 career assists in just 72 games. The three-time All-Star is averaging 20.1 points, 7.8 assists and 4.2 rebounds this season while helping keep Indiana among the league’s contenders.Despite those accomplishments, Clark has repeatedly found herself at the center of discussions about officiating and physicality. The latest controversy stemmed from the Fever’s June 24 matchup against the Phoenix Mercury, when Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark’s throat while the Fever guard was on the floor. Officials did not assess a foul during the game, but the WNBA later upgraded the play to a Flagrant 2 after review, resulting in a one-game suspension for Thomas.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFollowing Brennan’s column, Vitale took to social media with a passionate defense of Clark.”It is unbelievable what @CaitlinClark22 has to deal with! @WNBA Commissioner has to do something. Read this article by the super columnist @cbrennansports. WOW!” Vitale wrote.He followed with an even stronger message.”It is really sad the way @CaitlinClark22 is treated by many in the @WNBA she has been the leader for the league in many ways – PR – tv interest etc come on those that are critical – she deserves to be treated like ROYALTY!”Vitale has been one of Clark’s most vocal supporters since she entered the WNBA, frequently praising both her impact on the court and her role in growing the league’s popularity. His latest comments echo an ongoing debate surrounding how the WNBA should balance allowing physical competition while protecting its marquee players.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMORE: Sophie Cunningham gets surprising 2050 political prediction from bestselling authorClark’s influence has been undeniable. Television ratings, attendance figures and overall interest in the league have surged since her arrival, and she continues to produce at an elite level despite the constant attention from opposing defenses. Sunday’s historic assist mil