Host of ‘The Sage Steele Show’, Sage Steele, has voiced concerns over the WNBA’s treatment of Caitlin Clark, a recognized generational talent. Steele criticizes the league for its ongoing officiating issues, leading to frequent uncalled fouls against Clark and other players. She warns that ignoring these issues might drive away the WNBA’s expanding fanbase.
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy criticized USA Today columnist Nancy Armour after she argued that Caitlin Clark’s reactions to officiating could lead to racist abuse and pose risks to Black and queer WNBA players. Armour suggested that some Clark supporters see her challenges to referees as representing a White woman in need of protection, which might result in targeting other players.
“There appears to be a problematic White nationalist aspect to Clark’s fan base,” Armour commented. She referenced the U.S.’s history, where defending White women often led to violence against Black people. She also pointed out that the WNBA All-Star Game was held in Chicago, Emmett Till’s hometown.
The columnist’s connection between Caitlin Clark’s on-court reactions and historical racial violence drew significant backlash. Dave Portnoy rebuked Armour’s take as excessively irrational and called for USA Today to fire Armour.
Sports analyst Sam Vecenie questioned the judgment to include Armour’s assertions, considering them among the most inappropriate ever seen in a sports publication. OutKick founder Clay Travis joined in the criticism, questioning USA Today’s decision to publish the column.
Political commentators and others voiced disapproval of the comparison between Emmett Till’s tragic history and a WNBA game. They condemned the use of Till’s story in relation to Clark’s interactions with officials.
Amid the controversy, Armour acknowledged that her comparison to Emmett Till was poorly expressed and lacked necessary context. Still, she maintained that WNBA players face real risks from perceived threats to White women becoming weaponized against African-Americans.
Caitlin Clark has previously condemned any form of abuse against players, coaches, and officials. She emphasized that none of the harassment or hate is acceptable, aiming this message at everyone involved in basketball, including her opponents.
In response, the WNBA and its players’ union have announced plans to boost security resources due to the rise in racist and abusive messages directed at players.
CJ Womack, an associate editor at Fox News, highlights the role of journalism in shaping political and cultural narratives. With a background in political science and journalism, he joined Fox News Digital’s team in 2026.