Caitlin Clark recently reacted to A’ja Wilson’s comments that race played a role in the popularity of Indiana Fever.
FOX Sports reports the former Iowa Hawkeye responded at a press conference. This reportedly occurred before her first WNBA game on Tuesday, May 14.
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A’ja’s comments on Caitlin’s popularity
The Las Vegas Ace told the Associated Press this race was a factor in Caitlin’s meteoric rise into the public eye.
“I think it’s a huge thing. I think a lot of people might say it’s not black and white, but for me it is,” the forward stated.
Wilson believes you can be at the top of your game, but if you’re a woman of color, opportunities will still bypass you.
“It’s really because you can be excellent at who you are as a black woman, but maybe that’s something that people don’t want to see,” A’ja argued. “They don’t see it as marketable, so no matter how hard I work… we will still be swept under the rug.”
O ESPY the winner stated that it makes her angry “when people say it’s not about race, because it is.”
Clark’s response to A’ja
Caitlin told the media, “I think there are opportunities for every player in women’s basketball.”
She added, “…the more opportunities we can provide at all levels, that’s what will elevate women’s basketball.”
While Caitlin didn’t directly reject or support A’ja’s feelings, she believes that elevating the game is about introducing a variety of players.
“It doesn’t have to be just one or two players…” she said. “The parity in women’s basketball is what makes more people want to watch.”
She believes that if they “you can spread love, show people, show your talent,” the game will grow.
The guard added: “I had a lot of fun being the center of attention and helping to develop this game…”
As previously reported by The Shadow RoomCailtin won an exclusive Nike sneaker before A’ja Wilson, despite her extensive list of accomplishments.
What do you think of Caitlin’s response?
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