Key facts
- Eleven Republican politicians wrote to the WNBA requesting protection for Caitlin Clark.
- The lawmakers expressed concern that attacks on Clark might be racially motivated.
- The letter questioned the WNBA's policies on player safety, discipline, and online harassment.
- The Indiana Fever stated they were unaware of the letter and emphasized player safety.
- Caitlin Clark has spoken out against the media's focus on storylines and racist abuse in the league.
Eleven Republican politicians have written to the WNBA, urging Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to ensure the safety of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. The lawmakers, led by Congressman August Pfluger, expressed concern over reports that attacks against Clark, who is white, may be racially motivated, noting that most WNBA players are Black.
The letter highlights recent hard fouls Clark has endured, including an incident where Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas was suspended after hitting Clark in the throat. The politicians praised Clark for bringing renewed interest to the league and stated that the WNBA Commissioner has an obligation to provide a safe environment free from violence and discrimination.
They also suggested that if discrimination or retaliation is occurring, it could violate federal civil rights laws and supported potential investigations by the Department of Justice, Department of Labor, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The lawmakers asked the WNBA to clarify its policies on addressing on-court hostility, disciplining aggressive acts, and managing online player harassment.
The Indiana Fever organization stated they were unaware of the letter and reiterated their commitment to player safety and ongoing dialogue with the league. While the letter suggests potential racial motivation for attacks on Clark, many in the league believe physical play is common for new stars, and Black players routinely face online racial abuse. Clark herself has expressed frustration with media narratives and condemned racist abuse directed at WNBA players.