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'Threat' To Inflict Violence Against Caitlin Clark Emerges In WNBA
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) reacts Saturday, May 9, 2026, after losing the Fever’s season opener game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Dallas Wings defeated the Indiana Fever, 107-104.© Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The WNBA may have to step in and consider protecting Caitlin Clark before it's too late.

Clark was seen exchanging words with Tiffany Hayes during last Friday night's game between the Indiana Fever and Golden State Valkyries. The former No. 1 overall pick received both a flagrant and technical foul during that matchup. Although the refs docked Clark five personal fouls, Hayes thought the officials gave her preferential treatment.

“They’re never going to start calling the fouls on her,” Hayes said. “If they did, she would never get to play the game.”

As if Hayes' postgame remarks weren't controversial enough, she made a questionable decision on social media.


May 22, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) shoots the ball while Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images.

After the Fever secured their 90-82 win over the Valkyries, Hayes received some support from her fans online. Of course, some people took it too far.

"I talk ish, b/c you're nvr on my teams.... but I was READY 2 support your crashOUT," one fan told Hayes.

Another fan posted this message for Hayes on Threads: "Listen. I got some cousins we don't speak about that will ride at dawn upon request. Just let me know." Believe it or not, she actually responded to that comment.

"That's real," Hayes replied.

While there's zero indication Hayes is interested in hurting Clark on the hardwood, responding to a post that suggests violence could be an answer is a bit foolish.

Clark and Hayes will square off soon.

The Fever and Valkyries are set to meet again this Thursday night at the Chase Center in San Francisco. It wouldn't surprise us if things get chippy as soon as the game begins.

With that being said, it's imperative the WNBA's officiating crew for the Fever-Valkyries game stays on top of any extracurricular activites.

Thursday's game will begin at 10 p.m. ET on Prime Video.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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