From record-breaking college performances to reshaping the landscape of women’s basketball, Caitlin Clark entered the WNBA with more than just hype—she brought an undeniable cultural shift. Since being drafted No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever last season, Clark has brought a 133% spike, per Sportico, in WNBA viewership (from 2023) and increased ticket sales.
But with the fame came friction. As cameras followed Clark’s every move, many fans began questioning whether some of the hard fouls and cold shoulders she faced in her rookie season were more than just “welcome to the league” moments. Some even suggested she was being targeted because she was white. But now, Clark is rewriting that narrative.
Caitlin Clark Shuts up the Claims
In a newly released episode of “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction” with David Letterman on Netflix, the Indiana legend sat down for a candid conversation that once again showed her poise beyond the hardwood. When asked if she believed she was being targeted in the WNBA due to her race, Clark didn’t flinch.
“I don’t think I was being targeted,” said Clark during the interview with Letterman.
It was a bold and necessary response. One that echoed sentiments she shared months earlier when she was named “TIME’s Athlete of the Year” in December. In that feature, Clark acknowledged that being a white woman in a predominantly black league comes with advantages, particularly regarding media visibility and marketability.
Now, on the Netflix stage, she took that reflection further, but this time, giving flowers to the Black players who helped build the very league she’s now thriving in.
“I have privilege. I’m obviously white, but I think I’m somebody that grew up a huge fan of this league. I grew up watching this league, going to games, supporting this league. So, I know where this league comes from,” added Clark during the interview.
On the court, Clark has been nothing short of historic in her rookie campaign with the Fever. She averaged over 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. She was named to the WNBA All-Star team in her debut season and broke the record for most three-pointers made by a rookie.
Clark’s clarity reframes what some had viewed as animosity. Instead of feeding into divisive narratives, she’s pointing to the deeper, more nuanced reality of sports, race, and representation. Now, with just a few weeks left before the start of the 2025 season, we can expect nothing but greatness from her.
However, while Clark pointed out that she was not being targeted, a former WNBA coach had a different perspective.
Former WNBA Coach Stated That Clark Was Being Targeted
Clark’s recent comments may have settled the dust surrounding the intense physical play she’s faced, but it seems that those associated with the game have a different perspective.
Back in March, during an interview with the DraftKings Network, former WNBA coach and Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller voiced a strong opinion.
“I’m gonna be honest because it needs to be said. I can relate to that young lady. I felt for her. I know what it’s like to be hated. I know what it’s like to be a black woman and hated because of my color,” said Miller during the interview.
A former USC legend and Olympic gold medalist, Miller has coached at collegiate and professional levels. Her words carry weight in the basketball world. And now, even with Clark’s attempt to cool down the narrative, her statement remains relevant—highlighting a shift in how the situation is perceived.