Fans Demand Action from WNBA Leadership
What began as a big win for the Indiana Fever, who took down the Connecticut Sun 88–71 on Tuesday night, quickly turned into a national flashpoint after a heated third-quarter incident involving Caitlin Clark erupted into controversy.
As Clark dribbled toward the free-throw line, Sun guard Jacy Sheldon poked her in the eye. In frustration, Clark pushed Sheldon away. Only to be blindsided by Marina Mabrey, who shoved Clark to the ground in a move many deemed excessive and dangerous.
Christine Brennan and Chris Evert Speak Out
The reaction online was swift and unforgiving. Christine Brennan, a prominent sports analyst and author of the upcoming Caitlin Clark biography On Her Game, criticized the WNBA’s inaction in real time, posting:
“The WNBA continues to fail to meet the moment. Terrible decision to allow Marina Mabrey to stay in the game. People are watching as never before. And this is what they see?”
Tennis legend Chris Evert echoed the sentiment, writing:
“When will these ladies realize, accept and appreciate @CaitlinClark22 is the best thing that ever happened to women’s basketball. This is a bad look for the sport.”
Clark Drives Ratings, But Where’s the Protection?
Since her historic debut on May 14, 2024, Caitlin Clark has brought record-breaking attention to the league. Her opening game against the Sun drew 2.1 million viewers, the most for a WNBA game in over two decades. Her recent matchup against the New York Liberty saw a peak audience of 2.8 million viewers.
Yet, despite her impact, Caitlin Clark remains a target of overly physical play, often without proper response from referees or league officials. Fans and analysts are now openly asking: Where is Commissioner Cathy Engelbert?
As Brennan put it:
“We now have data that Clark alone draws more than half the league’s TV audience. Can the W continue to allow her to receive cheap shots like Mabrey’s?”
The incident is now being seen as a defining leadership test for Commissioner Engelbert. With Clark’s growing fan base and WNBA viewership surging by 15% year-over-year, the league is enjoying unprecedented attention. But the way it responds to the treatment of its star player could determine whether that momentum continues or fades.
Read More: Calls Mount for WNBA to Take Further Action After Caitlin Clark Clash
