WNBA under fire for 'disrespectful' behavior toward Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark has somehow found herself amid a significant amount of controversy in the WNBA. She's been thrust even more into the spotlight than ever due to missed calls during games, including some where Clark was in danger of injury.

Back in June, the WNBA suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for one game after she appeared to punch Clark's throat. During the game, the referees missed the foul, and that was enough to get Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White to speak up and criticize the officiating.

There's growing outrage about how Clark and other players are getting treated.

Olympians speak up on Caitlin Clark

Nancy Hogshead, a three-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer for the U.S., spoke with Fox News Digital about Clark and the WNBA. She wasn't happy.

"The WNBA needs the courage to act decisively for athlete safety. Caitlin Clark is a generational superstar, but she deserves the same protection as every player," Hogshead said.

She added, "The WNBA cannot continue to allow any dangerous conduct to go unchecked. A fist pressed against a player's throat is never 'just part of the game.' It's wildly unacceptable."

Finally, she told the WNBA to "enforce your rules, hold offenders accountable and put athlete safety first."

Anthony Watson, the first Olympian to represent Jamaica in skeleton, had some positive words of encouragement for Clark, stating that "her legacy is already taking shape."

Donna de Varona, an Olympic gold medalist swimmer for the U.S., added, "For those of us pioneers who had no college or professional sports opportunities and have worked tirelessly to elevate all women in sports, the abusive behavior directed at Caitlin Clark is disrespectful and shortsighted."

She continued, "A talented performer in any sport lifts up everyone. Players who do not understand this are undermining the WNBA."

It's clear that Clark is getting plenty of support from female athletes who have been somewhat in her shoes.