GOP Lawmakers Urge WNBA to Address Fouls on Caitlin Clark

A group of Republican members of Congress sent a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Wednesday demanding accountability for repeated physical contact against Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. The lawmakers cited several incidents this season, including a June 24 game in which Phoenix Mercury guard Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark that left her with a back injury.

Clark returned to play on Wednesday.

The letter stated that Clark has been "hip-checked, poked in the eye, and struck in the throat" and argued that these incidents go beyond routine physical play. " The representatives expressed concern that the fouls may be racially motivated, noting Clark is White and has had high-profile altercations with Black players including Thomas and Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese.

They said they would support an investigation into a hostile workplace environment.

Thomas received a one-game suspension for the June 24 contact. She later told reporters that fans had sent death threats and racial slurs to players and said the situation needed to change. Rep. Victoria Spartz of Indiana stated that Clark has made Hoosiers proud and that the WNBA has a responsibility to ensure every player competes in a fair and safe environment.

ESPN commentator Dick Vitale posted on X that Clark is being targeted in a negative way and should be treated like royalty for what she has done for the league. Clark, a third-year player credited with increasing WNBA viewership, has drawn a protective fan base that has sometimes directed threats at opposing players.