Caitlin Clark Speaks Out Against Racist “Trolls” Targeting WNBA Players: “It’s Definitely Upsetting” [Video]

WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark is taking a stand against the racist and hateful comments targeting her fellow players. During exit interviews after the Indiana Fever‘s elimination from the postseason, Clark, 22, addressed the growing discourse about racism and threats in the league.

“It’s definitely upsetting,” Clark said in a video shared by The Athletic’s James Boyd on Friday, September 27. “Nobody in our league should be facing any sort of racism, hurtful, disrespectful, hateful comments, or threats.”

Clark pointed out that many of those spreading hate aren’t real fans. “Those aren’t fans, those are trolls, and it’s a real disservice to the people in our league, the organization, and the WNBA.”

Despite the negativity, Clark took a moment to recognize the positive side of the fanbase. “There are a lot of really good fans, whether they’ve been supporters for 20-plus years or are new to the league. The best thing we can do is continue to uplift this league in a positive light.”

As the AP Rookie of the Year, Clark acknowledged the immense talent in the WNBA and encouraged people to celebrate players and teams instead of pitting them against each other. She addressed the comparisons often made between her and fellow rookie Angel Reese, which have fueled discussions with racial undertones this season.

“For me, that’s why I became a fan of this league,” Clark said. “These people were my idols. I grew up wanting to be like them, so continuing to uplift and represent this league in a positive way is the best thing we can do.”

The topic of racism in the WNBA recently gained attention after sports writer Frankie de la Cretaz tweeted about instances of racism during a Fever-Sun playoff game. This situation, along with comments made by WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, further escalated the conversation. Engelbert compared the rivalry between Clark and Reese to the iconic NBA duo Magic Johnson and Larry Bird during an interview, but her remarks were met with criticism.

I’m at the Sun/Fever game and the vibe is HORRENDOUS. The woman behind me was mocking DiJonai’s eyelashes & only stopped when my partner turned around & told her to stop being racist. There’s a man in a MAGA hat. Then there’s THIS woman in a “ban nails” shirt & cartoonishly fake… pic.twitter.com/wxasTb3DaQ

— Frankie de la Cretaz (@thefrankiedlc) September 26, 2024

WNBA Players Association executive director Terri Jackson condemned Engelbert’s response, stating, “This kind of toxic fandom should never be tolerated or left unchecked. It demands immediate action.” Jackson emphasized that racism should never be justified for the sake of growing the league’s business.