Caitlin Clark, recently named TIME Athlete of the Year, used the spotlight to address important issues in her sport, including the concept of white privilege and the importance of elevating Black women in the WNBA. However, her thoughtful remarks in the TIME interview sparked criticism from podcast host and media personality Megyn Kelly.
In the original TIME piece, Clark reflected on the dynamics of race and representation within professional women’s basketball:
“I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege,” Clark said. “A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them. The more we can appreciate that, highlight that, talk about that, and then continue to have brands and companies invest in those players that have made this league incredible, I think it’s very important.”
These comments were meant to celebrate the contributions of Black players to the WNBA and advocate for more recognition and investment in their success. However, Kelly took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize Clark’s remarks, accusing her of pandering:
“Look at this. She’s on the knee all but apologizing for being white and getting attention. The self-flagellation. The ‘oh pls pay attention to the Black players who are REALLY the ones you want to celebrate.’ Condescending. Fake. Transparent. Sad,” Kelly wrote.
Clark Responds Gracefully
Clark was asked about Kelly’s criticism during her appearance at the 2024 A Year in TIME dinner on Wednesday night. During an on-stage interview with NBC Sports host Maria Taylor, Clark addressed the comments with composure and authenticity.
“I feel like I’ve always had good perspective on everything that’s kind of happened in my life, whether that’s been good, whether that’s been bad, and then obviously coming to the WNBA,” Clark said. “Like I said, I feel like I’ve earned every single thing that’s happened to me over the course of my career, but I also grew up a fan of this league from a very young age.”
Clark highlighted her admiration for former WNBA star Maya Moore, adding, “I know what this league was about. It’s only been around for 25-plus years, and I know there have been so many amazing Black women in this league. Continuing to uplift them is very important, and that’s something I’m very aware of.”
The Indiana Fever rookie, who had a record-breaking college career at Iowa before joining the WNBA, emphasized the value of staying true to herself amidst criticism.
“I try to just be real and authentic and share my truth, and I think that’s very easy for me,” Clark said. “I’m very comfortable in my own skin, and that’s kind of how it’s been my entire life.”
Blocking Out the Noise
When pressed further on how she handles backlash, Clark expressed her ability to tune out negativity and focus on what matters most.
“I think I have good perspective on that… I feel like one of my best skills is just blocking things out,” she explained. “The only opinions I really care about are from the people I love, my teammates, my coaches, the people inside our locker room, the people I see every single day and I know have my best interest at heart.”
Clark acknowledged that increased attention comes with the territory of playing in the WNBA, but she sees it as an opportunity rather than a burden.
“With the way things are going and the way the WNBA is going, you want that attention and you embrace it. That’s what makes this so fun,” she concluded.
A Role Model On and Off the Court
Clark’s thoughtful response demonstrates her maturity and understanding of the platform she holds as a professional athlete. By advocating for inclusivity and recognizing the contributions of others, Clark continues to set an example for how athletes can use their voice for positive change.
While Kelly’s critique might have sparked unnecessary controversy, Clark’s grace under pressure reinforces why she’s celebrated not just for her basketball skills, but for her leadership and character.
As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, Clark remains a beacon of inspiration, focusing on uplifting her teammates, her league, and herself.
