Let’s talk about the rising star Caitlin Clark and the whirlwind of attention she’s been getting in the WNBA. Her incredible skills on the court have earned her fans, but not everyone is happy about her meteoric rise to fame.
Some media commentators and WNBA figures are struggling to reconcile with Clark’s sudden popularity. Critics have pointed to her being white and “pretty” as reasons for her fame, suggesting that black and queer players haven’t received the same attention.
On the court, Clark has faced her share of hostility. A recent example occurred during a game between the Connecticut Sun and the Indiana Fever. DiJonai Carrington of the Sun bumped into Clark and then mockingly threw her head back, implying Clark was faking her reaction.
Dijonai Carrington mocks Caitlin Clark 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/AV6kfi6Te7
— WNBA Rookie Watch (@WNBARookieWatch) June 10, 2024
Carrington didn’t seem to understand the backlash, later posting on social media, “Why yall so mad at me & bein mean!? I jus be hoopin & havin fun mannn.” But a few days later, her tone changed as she criticized those who, in her view, were using her actions to justify various forms of bigotry.
Why yall so mad at me & bein mean!? 😂 I jus be hoopin & havin fun mannn🫶🏽 live a littleee
— dιjonaι carrιngтon♛ (@DijonaiVictoria) June 12, 2024
This incident underscores the resentment and envy Clark seems to face from other players in the league. Adding fuel to the fire, USA Basketball recently announced that Clark would not be on the Olympic team, a decision that left many fans puzzled and disappointed.
Earlier this month, Clark was violently checked and knocked to the floor by Chicago Sun’s Chennedy Carter, who also appeared to call Clark a derogatory name. While Carrington’s mocking gesture was less severe, it still sent a strong message to fans: Leave Caitlin Clark alone.
Caitlin Clark gets called a b*tch then decked by Chicago guard, Chennedy Carter, away from the ball.
Does Caitlin need to toughen up, or are the women out to get her- What y’all think? pic.twitter.com/ajKvPQfr91
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) June 1, 2024
Clark has drawn a significant number of new fans to the WNBA. However, players should remember that their actions reflect on the entire WNBA, and catty, mean-girl tactics could drive away the very fans who are making the league relevant again.
