WNBA Star Caitlin Clark Hilariously Responds to LeBron James' Strict Diet

The Indiana Fever guard joked she'd rather retire than give up cookies like the Lakers legend.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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NBA superstar LeBron James recently revealed he's made major changes to his diet in order to extend his playing career, including cutting out chocolate chip cookies and wine. However, WNBA standout Caitlin Clark had a hilarious response, saying she loves her cookies too much to follow a similar regimen and would rather retire than make those sacrifices.

Why it matters

James' dietary adjustments highlight the extreme lengths elite athletes must go to in order to perform at the highest level for as long as possible. Clark's lighthearted reaction shows how those demands may not resonate with all professional athletes, even those at the top of their sport.

The details

In a podcast appearance, James discussed his new eating habits, which include eliminating cookies and wine, in an effort to stay healthy and productive late into his NBA career. Clark, an up-and-coming star in the WNBA, saw James' comments and jokingly responded on social media that she'd 'rather retire than do this,' adding 'this is why he's him.' The Indiana Fever guard is known for her love of cookies and seems unwilling to make the same sacrifices as the Lakers legend.

  • In February 2026, LeBron James discussed his new dietary habits on the 'Mind The Game' podcast.
  • Shortly after James' comments, Caitlin Clark posted her humorous response on social media.

The players

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player who has won four championships and is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Caitlin Clark

A rising star in the WNBA, playing for the Indiana Fever, known for her love of cookies and lighthearted personality.

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What they’re saying

“I'd rather retire than do this. This is why he's him.”

— Caitlin Clark, WNBA Player (Instagram)

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the different mindsets and priorities between elite athletes, even at the highest levels of professional sports. While LeBron James is willing to make extreme dietary sacrifices to prolong his career, Caitlin Clark's lighthearted response shows that not all players are prepared to go to those lengths, preferring to maintain their enjoyment of certain foods over the potential benefits.