Caitlin Clark is addressing the unacceptable treatment of WNBA players this season, emphasizing that no one should have to endure racist and hateful remarks directed at them.
The WNBA has experienced a significant boost in popularity since the former Iowa guard joined the league in April. However, it’s evident that some of the new fans have crossed unacceptable boundaries in their support for teams and players. This has prompted the organization, along with its players and coaches, to address these issues repeatedly.
Following the Indiana Fever’s elimination from the playoffs earlier this week, Clark was questioned about the inappropriate behavior of some fans during her exit interview. She remarked that those who act out in such ways aren’t true fans; instead, she referred to them as “trolls.”
“It’s definitely upsetting,” Clark said on Friday. “Nobody in our league should be facing any sort of racism, hurtful, disrespectful, hateful comments and threats. Those aren’t fans. Those are trolls and it’s a real disservice to the people in our league, the organization, the WNBA.”
Clark did point out there are people who have backed the league for 20-plus years … and she hopes positivity can drown out all the bad.
“For me, that’s why I became a fan of this league is these people were my idols. I grew up wanting to be like them. So, I think continuing to uplift and represent this league in a positive way is the best thing that we can do.”
Clark’s remarks came after Fever head coach Christie Sides delivered a prepared statement during her media session, in which she also emphasized that racism and hate toward players have no place in the sport.