GOP Lawmakers Invoke “Civil Rights” Over Caitlin Clark’s Treatment in WNBA
A group of 11 Republican members of Congress is demanding answers from the WNBA after a series of physical incidents involving Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, arguing the league has failed to adequately protect one of its biggest players.
Led by U.S. Rep. August Pfluger of Texas, the lawmakers sent a letter Wednesday to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert calling for greater accountability over what they described as repeated “attacks” against Clark on the court.
According to ESPN, In the letter, the lawmakers described Clark as “the face of your league,” crediting the third-year guard with driving record television ratings, attendance and corporate sponsorships since entering the WNBA.
The lawmakers argued Clark has repeatedly been subjected to “unnecessary physical hostility and violence,” pointing to incidents that have included hard fouls, eye-poking, hip-checking and, most recently, contact to her throat during a game against the Phoenix Mercury.
They also expressed concern over reports suggesting “attacks against Clark may be racially motivated.”
“As Commissioner, you have an obligation to ensure that every player competes in a safe and professional environment, both on and off the court, free from violence, discrimination, or retaliation,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter added that if discrimination or retaliation is contributing to a hostile work environment, it could warrant investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice, Department of Labor or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if federal civil rights laws have been violated.
Lawmakers request answers by July 24
The congressional group asked Engelbert to respond by July 24, requesting details on:
- How the WNBA reviews incidents involving excessive physical play.
- How players are disciplined for overly aggressive conduct.
- What steps the league is taking to protect players from online harassment and abuse.
The Indiana Fever said Wednesday that neither the organization nor Clark had any involvement with the lawmakers’ request.
“Our organization nor Caitlin has had any interaction with anyone in this congressional group and we were unaware of their letter,” the team said in a statement.
The Fever added that the organization has consistently emphasized player safety in its discussions with the league.
“Our players and our fans know where we stand on those issues, and we will continue to stick up for our team and a standard of excellence across the league.”
Incident Involving Alyssa Thomas Reignited Debate
The latest controversy stems from a June 24 game when Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark’s throat during play.
Officials did not assess a foul during the game, but after reviewing the play the following day, the WNBA upgraded the contact to a Flagrant 2 foul and suspended Thomas for one game.
The incident renewed criticism from the Fever and others around the league who have argued officiating has been inconsistent in addressing increasingly physical play.
Following her suspension, Thomas said she and her family received threats and harassment on social media.
Clark condemned those attacks during a media availability last week.
“Harassment, hate, none of that is OK,” Clark said. “That goes for the opposing teams we play, that goes for my teammates, that goes for my coaches. There should never be question of character… none of that is OK, and I don’t want anyone to experience that.”
The WNBA has not publicly responded to the lawmakers’ letter.
