WNBA star Caitlin Clark has sparked controversy after saying she had white privilege in an interview with TIME magazine, where she was named Athlete of the Year for 2024.
The Indiana Fever player’s comments about race and privilege in women’s basketball have drawn sharp criticism, particularly from media commentator Megyn Kelly.
Clark, who has become one of the biggest names in women’s sports following her record-breaking rookie season, faced backlash for suggesting she has benefited from being white in a sport historically dominated by Black players.
In her TIME interview, Clark addressed the racial dynamics within women’s basketball, acknowledging the WNBA’s foundation.
Caitlin Clark feels she benefits from white privilege
GETTY
“A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them,” Clark stated.
The basketball star emphasised her desire to uplift Black women in the sport.
“The more we can elevate Black women that’s going to be a beautiful thing,” she said.
Clark also directly addressed her own position, stating: “I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege.”
Megyn Kelly, a prominent media commentator, took to social media to denounce Clark’s remarks.
“She’s on the knee all but apologizing for being white and getting attention. The self-flagellation,” Kelly wrote.
Kelly described Clark’s comments as “condescending”, “fake”, “transparent” and “sad”.
Caitlin Clark was named TIME Athlete of the Year
REUTERS
The commentator particularly criticised what she perceived as Clark’s deferential stance towards Black players.
She also mocked Clark by adding: “The ‘oh pls pay attention to the black players who are REALY the ones you want to celebrate’.”
Las Vegas Aces player A’ja Wilson spoke out about racial disparities in May, stating: “It doesn’t matter how hard I work. It doesn’t matter what we all do as black women, we’re still going to be swept underneath the rug.”
Clark’s first WNBA season was marked by racial undertones, with some suggesting she faced jealousy and bullying.
Chicago Sky’s Chennedy Carter faced heavy scrutiny this past season when she seemingly shoved Clark to the ground unprovoked.
Clark was also pitted against Angel Reese in their rookie campaigns with their rivalry sparking controversy at times.
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Caitlin Clark has been credited with helping the WNBA’s rise in popularityREUTERS
However, Clark has dismissed the suggestion that the WNBA pair don’t get along.
“I don’t get it at all,” Clark said.
“We’re not best friends, by any means, but were very respectful of one another. Yes, we have had tremendous battles. But when have I ever guarded her? And when has she guarded me?”