The constant talk about Caitlin Clark has entered a new phase

When Caitlin Clark joined the WNBA, she brought many new fans who were not regular followers of women's basketball. They were interested in her amazing three-point shots. Three years after becoming famous at the University of Iowa, the 24-year-old Indiana Fever player has become a symbol for cultural debates. She is seen by some extreme fans as a victim, facing jealousy from rivals and unfair treatment from referees and league officials. They believe every small issue is proof that she is being treated badly.

Recently, the WNBA shared a poster celebrating its 30th anniversary. Many people noticed that Clark was not on the poster. Instead of focusing on the 20 players who were included, some viewers asked why Clark was left out. One person joked that the back of the poster must be a picture of Clark because she supposedly saved the league.

The fact that other important players from WNBA history, like Candace Parker, Diana Taurasi, and Tamika Catchings, were also not on the poster was ignored by Clark’s biggest supporters. A simpler reason was that the company making the poster, WinCraft, reportedly did not have the rights to use Clark’s image. However, many of Clark's dedicated fans immediately believed she was intentionally excluded, though they didn't specify by whom.

This idea of unfair treatment became stronger after a game where Clark collided with Alyssa Thomas. Clark fell to the ground, and some viewers thought Thomas deliberately hit her in the throat. The Fever coach, Stephanie White, described the play as a ‘cheap shot’.

Thomas was not given a foul for the play, and Clark left the game with a back injury. The league later reviewed the incident and suspended Thomas for one game. The Phoenix coach, Nate Tibbetts, disagreed with the decision, stating that the league did not investigate thoroughly or get the team's perspective. He defended Thomas, saying she is not a ‘cheap’ player.

However, some of Clark's most passionate fans felt the punishment wasn't enough. Due to years of negative discussions about Clark online and on TV, many see her as a helpless victim. They think the league should have punished Thomas more severely. Tragically, some fans have sent racist messages and death threats to Thomas.

On a sports radio show, former NFL player Boomer Esiason strongly defended Clark, repeating old complaints. He argued that Clark, as a straight, white player, was not being treated with respect. He even suggested she should consider playing overseas to get better treatment. Many regular WNBA fans saw his comments as the opinions of someone who doesn’t follow the sport closely.

A frustrating aspect of the Clark era is how discussions about her sometimes encourage the WNBA to protect players from criticism, even while wanting to be taken as seriously as the NBA. The simpler explanation for Clark’s performance – that she is experiencing normal challenges as a young player – is often missed. This leaves room for fans with conspiracy theories to create their own narratives.

The idea that Clark is targeted because she is different in a league that is mostly Black and includes many LGBTQ+ players is unfair to many white stars who have played in the league. It also highlights existing social divisions in America. This is particularly sensitive at a time when society is increasingly focusing on issues affecting Black women and the LGBTQ+ community.

Suggesting Clark should play overseas ignores the struggles of past players who had to do so to earn a decent living. Brittney Griner's experience in Russia is a stark reminder of the potential dangers. While Clark's popularity has helped raise WNBA salaries, it's one of several factors, including new leagues and advocacy from previous players, which Clark has acknowledged.

What's truly difficult to understand is why some fans would want their favorite player to leave, or even suggest opponents should be gentler. What kind of star cannot handle physical play? While defenses are tough on Clark, it's part of the sport. Michael Jordan faced similar physicality early in his career. Many WNBA pioneers also faced hardship and tough officiating when breaking barriers.

Nancy Lieberman, a pioneer in women's basketball before the WNBA, recalled a conversation with coach Pat Riley. He spoke about her experience playing in the Lakers' summer league in the 1980s, where she was physically challenged but never cried and always showed up ready to play. This impressed him and taught him lessons about resilience.

The league's anniversary poster is meant to celebrate greatness built over time, not just recent popularity. Clark is a skilled player, ranking high in scoring and assists. However, she is not perfect. She is relatively small for her position, a limited defender, and often complains about calls.

Instead of placing the responsibility on Clark to meet high expectations, some casual fans blame her environment, similar to overprotective parents. They seem to believe everyone – her coach, teammates, veteran players, and even USA Basketball – is against her. Clark's own attempts to calm her enthusiastic fans have been ignored.

This protective attitude suggests a desire to see Clark as someone needing protection, rather than allowing her to develop into a dominant player. However, this idea will fade as the league features established stars and exciting new talent. While Clark was initially seen as a role model for her hard work, her fans' insistence on seeing her as a victim of conspiracy could turn her into a symbol of perpetual victimhood.