A storm of controversy has erupted within the league following the backlash from Indiana Fever fans after Caitlin Clark’s black-eye incident, caused unintentionally by the Connecticut Sun’s DiJonai Carrington. The fallout from this incident has taken an ugly turn, as Carrington has been subjected to death threats, being followed, and called derogatory names—similar to what Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese experienced earlier.
In response to the hostility Carrington is facing, her partner, Indiana Fever forward NaLyssa Smith, addressed the situation on social media. After being criticized by a fan for sending flowers to support Carrington, Smith fired back, revealing the harassment her partner has endured: “My girlfriend has been getting death threats, followed, called all types of sh—. So, if sending her flowers to ensure her mental health is okay, then cry about it.”
Alyssa Thomas, another key player in the league, also spoke out about the issue, reflecting on her own experience. She shared that in her 11-year career, she had never encountered the level of racist comments from the Indiana Fever fanbase that she’s now seeing. Thomas noted that the offensive remarks targeted not only her but also the larger issue, as the face of a serious matter was being mistreated in a way she described as “unacceptable.”
Thomas emphasized that while the league is progressing in a positive direction, there is no place for fans who degrade players with racist and derogatory remarks. She demanded that both the Indiana Fever and the league take action to address these harmful behaviors. Many fans had expressed outrage at Carrington for unintentionally hitting Clark, with some even questioning her relationship with Clark, though both players made it clear the incident was accidental.
In light of the escalating situation, the WNBA has responded by taking firm measures. The league issued a statement affirming that while it welcomes a growing fan base, it will not tolerate racist, threatening, or derogatory remarks directed at any players or persons affiliated with the WNBA. The statement also made it clear that law enforcement would be involved if necessary to ensure the safety of the athletes.
Connecticut Sun head coach Stephanie White also addressed the issue, pointing out that racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia are prevalent throughout society, and sports are no exception. White expressed her frustration at how internet trolls can manipulate the narrative, leading to unnecessary hostility. She called on media professionals to ensure that the focus remains on the players’ accomplishments rather than on negative attacks that detract from the essence of the game.
White praised the players and teams for maintaining their professionalism throughout the season despite the external noise and encouraged them to keep focusing on their performance.
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