WNBA Commissioner Addresses Controversy Surrounding Caitlin Clark
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark has emerged as the standout story of the early 2024 WNBA season.
Amidst numerous standout moments and a handful of challenges, there has been considerable discussion surrounding the 22-year-old shooter. One prevailing belief, echoed by fans and Fever general manager Lin Dunn, is that Clark is being deliberately targeted for aggressive fouls by opponents across the league.
To counter those allegations, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert responded by pointing to the Indiana Fever’s recent victory—a close 85-83 win over the Washington Mystics, during which Teaira McCowan scored 30 points.
“Was there any mention of her being targeted during that game?” Engelbert asked USA Today’s Josh Peter. “No, because everyone’s focused on the outcomes they desire. But it’s great for fans and fosters important discussions, and we’re continually assessing or reviewing games post-event.”
Earlier this month, Fever coach Christie Sides stated that the team is submitting instances where Clark isn’t receiving calls on hard fouls to the WNBA league office for further scrutiny. Dunn reiterated this stance on social media, urging the WNBA to address “unnecessary targeting actions.”
Engelbert mentioned that she has received numerous emails from fans regarding the former Iowa guard this season, indicating that the physicality faced by the rookie is typical rather than unusual.
“I think everyone is closely watching Caitlin, so their focus is solely on her,” Engelbert commented. “However, when you observe other games with different players, you see it’s a physical game. It’s a game where shooters excel, with lots of pick-and-rolls and court awareness.”
Clark and the Fever (3–10) will be back in action on Thursday, hosting the Atlanta Dream (5–5) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
