Rivalries in sports are expected—but when they appear to cross the line into racial territory, they ignite something much bigger. This was the case following the Indiana Fever’s 81-76 win over the Atlanta Dream, where Brittney Griner became the center of online outrage over alleged comments directed at Caitlin Clark.
With just seconds left in the game, cameras caught Griner appearing to mouth harsh words after fouling out. Though no audio confirmed what she said, critics quickly speculated. Conservative commentator Riley Gaines shared the clip and tweeted: “Brittney Griner appeared to call Caitlin Clark ‘trash’ and a ‘f***ing white girl’ after fouling out last night.”
As speculation grew, so did outrage from conservative voices. Media personality Paul Syzpula tweeted, “Will the WNBA condemn, fine, and suspend Griner for this racist comment? Of course not. The WNBA is trash. Just like Griner.”
The WNBA has yet to issue a statement on the incident, further fueling accusations of double standards in how the league handles controversy.
Adding to the discourse, reports of a February police investigation involving Griner resurfaced. Back then, the star center found a note on her hotel door saying “Gay Baby Jail” ahead of a Women’s Leadership Summit in Maryland. Police later determined the note wasn’t directed at her, but rather left behind by attendees of a Japanese pop culture event.
Meanwhile, sports journalist Jemele Hill pushed back on the claims against Griner, tweeting: “She clearly says ‘trash’ and ‘(expletive) WACK CALL.’ But carry on with your grifting (expletive).”
As the debate brews, the on-court rivalry will have to take a back seat—Clark is out for at least two weeks with a left quad strain.
With Caitlin Clark sidelined, the Indiana Fever now face the tough task of filling her shoes on the court. After taking a day to evaluate options, head coach Stephanie White announced veteran guard Sydney Colson would take Clark’s spot in the starting lineup.
Colson, a two-time WNBA champion with the Las Vegas Aces, brings veteran savvy and elite communication.
“[Colson] is an elite communicator,” White said. “She sees things from that point guard position. It’s gonna look different without Caitlin, but she can help us manage live action decisions.”
Sophie Cunningham will also share playmaking duties off the bench as the Fever adjust in Clark’s absence.
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