Context:

Last year's WNBA rookies such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese endured a hostile environment characterized by constant fouls and trash talk, which was notably different from the current season. The current rookie class is receiving a more supportive and respectful welcome, a change acknowledged by both fans and veteran players. Seattle Storm guard Lexie Brown highlighted this positive shift on her podcast, noting an intentional effort by the league and veterans to create a more inviting atmosphere. Reflecting on the previous season, Brown described the environment as 'hostile, mean, and nasty,' lacking healthy competition, and expressed hope that the new tone of high energy and respect continues. Brown emphasized the responsibility of veterans in maintaining this improved culture for the incoming classes, aiming for a more inclusive and welcoming league environment.

Dive Deeper:

• WNBA veterans and fans have noticed a significant change in the treatment of rookies this year compared to the previous season, where rookies faced a hostile environment filled with fouls and trash talk.

• Seattle Storm guard Lexie Brown addressed this shift, noting a conscious effort by the league and veteran players to foster a more welcoming atmosphere for the new rookie class.

• Brown described last season as overwhelmingly hostile and unlike anything she had experienced before, with an environment that was not rooted in healthy competition.

• The current season is characterized by higher energy and respect towards rookies, which is a deliberate move to ensure they feel more welcomed into the league.

• Lexie Brown expressed her hope that veterans will continue to play their part in creating a better space for future rookies, ensuring the WNBA remains a positive and inclusive environment.

• The changes have been recognized not just by players but also fans, indicating a widespread acknowledgment of the improved culture within the league.

• Endia Berger, a freelance writer with a background in sports media, highlights these developments, underscoring the importance of storytelling in bringing attention to the human elements of sports.

• Many people felt that last year's WNBA rookies including stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese faced a very different kind of treatment compared to what this year’s rookie class is experiencing.

• Back then, fouls and trash talk seemed constant. Now, it’s said that the new rookies are getting a more supportive and respectful welcome. It’s not just fans who are noticing, WNBA veterans are speaking up, too.

• MORE: What Lexie Brown, Courtney Williams and more WNBA stars really think of Caitlin Clark

• Seattle Storm guard Lexie Brown recently addressed the shift on her podcast, saying, “The league and as veterans, I think we have made this a more welcoming environment for this rookie class,” acknowledging a conscious effort to create a more inviting atmosphere.

• She added, “The energy feels different this year—as far as these rookies coming in and how the season is starting—it’s overwhelmingly more positive.”

• Reflecting on last season’s environment, Brown didn’t hold back: “Last year it was like complete hostility going into the season like it was insane. I had never felt that before going into a season.”

• MORE: Caitlin Clark’s shocking transformation has everyone talking

• She pointed out that last year's “hostile, mean and nasty” energy wasn’t even rooted in healthy competition.

• Now, she says, the tone has changed. This year’s competition is more high energy and respectful, Brown noted.

• “I feel this season is different for these rookies and I hope that they feel welcomed to the W,” she continued.

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• Brown closed with a note of accountability. She hopes that veterans are doing their part to make the league a better space for the next class.