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newsFriday, July 10, 2026·3 min read

Lawmakers Seek Accountability from WNBA on Clark

Lawmakers demand WNBA accountability for Clark's treatment

Teen girl bends and stretches during a workout on an outdoor basketball court.
Photo: RDNE Stock project

A group of lawmakers sent a letter to the WNBA commissioner demanding accountability for the treatment of Caitlin Clark. Clark has been the target of physical hostility and violence on the court. The lawmakers are concerned that the attacks may be racially motivated. The WNBA has been urged to take action to protect its players from violence and harassment.

## What happened The lawmakers' letter was sent to WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Wednesday. The letter describes Clark as the face of the league and someone who has generated fan interest and increased television ratings. The lawmakers express concern over reports that attacks against Clark may be racially motivated. The letter also requests that the WNBA reply with answers to three questions about the league's review process for physical hostility and violence on the court. The Fever organization stated that they were unaware of the letter and have been clear in their public comments about the priority of player safety. ## Why it matters The lawmakers' letter highlights the need for the WNBA to take action to protect its players from violence and harassment. The league has been criticized for its handling of physicality in games and its treatment of players who are targeted by hostile behavior. The incident involving Alyssa Thomas and Caitlin Clark has sparked a wider conversation about player safety and the need for greater accountability in the league.
+ Pros
  • The WNBA has taken steps to address player safety and harassment in the past.
  • The league has a strong track record of promoting diversity and inclusion.
  • The lawmakers' letter may prompt the WNBA to take further action to protect its players.
Cons
  • The WNBA has been criticized for its handling of physicality in games.
  • The league has been slow to respond to incidents of harassment and violence.
  • The lawmakers' letter may be seen as an overreach by some, and may not lead to meaningful change.
## How to think about it The WNBA should prioritize player safety and take concrete steps to address violence and harassment in the league. This may involve implementing new policies and procedures for reviewing incidents, as well as providing support and resources to players who are targeted by hostile behavior. ## FAQ
What prompted the lawmakers to send a letter to the WNBA?+
The lawmakers were prompted to send a letter to the WNBA by reports of physical hostility and violence against Caitlin Clark, as well as concerns that the attacks may be racially motivated.
What does the lawmakers' letter request from the WNBA?+
The lawmakers' letter requests that the WNBA reply with answers to three questions about the league's review process for physical hostility and violence on the court, as well as steps the league is taking to protect players from online harassment.
How has the WNBA responded to the lawmakers' letter?+
The WNBA has not yet publicly responded to the lawmakers' letter, but the Fever organization has stated that they were unaware of the letter and have been clear in their public comments about the priority of player safety.

Sources
  1. 01In letter, lawmakers seek 'accountability' from WNBA on Clark
  2. 02In letter, lawmakers seek 'accountability' from WNBA on Clark
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