Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has become a right-wing culture war ambassador, profiting from anti-Black and anti-transgender sentiments within the WNBA. The article argues her rise is fueled by racial and gender dynamics, contrasting her reception with Black players and highlighting how her persona appeals to a "bro culture" audience.
Eleven Republican politicians have written to the WNBA, urging Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to protect star player Caitlin Clark from "multiple attacks" on court. The lawmakers expressed concern that these "attacks" may be racially motivated, given Clark is white and most WNBA players are Black. They requested clarification on the league's policies regarding on-court aggression and online harassment.
Caitlin Clark's WNBA entry has drawn millions of new fans, but also fueled culture-war anxieties, with her supporters framing her as a victim of rivals and the league. Controversies, like her absence from a WNBA poster and a collision with Alyssa Thomas, are amplified by fans who ignore broader contexts and league history.
Phoenix Mercury player Alyssa Thomas has revealed she's receiving death threats and racist abuse following a one-game ban for an on-court incident with Caitlin Clark. Thomas called the abuse unacceptable and criticized WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert for not addressing player safety.
Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White confirmed Caitlin Clark will miss Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Sparks due to a lingering back injury. The setback follows Clark's exit from Wednesday's game against the Phoenix Mercury. The team will use the upcoming week-long break for treatment and recovery, with no confirmed return date.
The WNBA has suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for hitting Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark in the throat during a game. The league retroactively issued a Flagrant Foul 2 penalty for the incident, which occurred in the second quarter of Phoenix's road win.
