Caitlin Clark has responded to Megyn KellyCriticism after incendiary commenter criticized Clark’s acknowledgment of his white privilege.
The Indiana Fever player was announced as Time magazine’s Athlete of the Year on Tuesday (December 10). During an accompanying interview with the magazine, Clark said the WNBA was “built on” Black players and that they should be highlighted more.
“I want to say I’ve earned it all, but as a white person, there is a privilege,” she told the publication. “A lot of the players in the league that have been really good were black players. This league has been built on them. The more we can appreciate that, highlight that, talk about that and then continue to get brands and companies to invest in those players that have made this league incredible, I think is very important.”
The former Fox News host highlighted that quote in a publication on X (formerly Twitter) while accusing the basketball player of apologizing for his ethnicity. “Look at this. She is kneeling and almost apologizing for being white and attracting attention,” the post said.
“Self-flagellation. The ‘Oh please pay attention to the black players who REALLY are the ones you want to celebrate.’ Condescending. Fake. Transparent. Sad.”
On Wednesday (December 11) Clark attended a Time dinner, which featured a conversation moderated by NBC Sports host Maria Taylor.
Taylor asked 2024 Rookie of the Year Winner about Kelly’s criticism, to which Clark responded: “One of my best skills is just blocking things out.
“The only opinions that really matter to me are those of the people I love, my teammates, my coaches, the people inside our locker room, the people I see every day and know have my best interests at heart,” he said. Clark.
Speaking further about her comments on white privilege, Clark added: “I know what this league was about… it’s only been around for over 25 years, and that’s why I know there have been so many incredible black women who have been in this league, and continuing to encourage them is very important and that is something I am very aware of.”
During another portion of her interview for the magazine, Clark also addressed the rumored rivalry between her and fellow WNBA player Angel Reese.
She explained that even though the two are pitted against each other, she personally doesn’t see her as a rival.
“I don’t understand that at all,” he said. “We’re not best friends by any means, but we have a lot of respect for each other.”
The Indiana Fever player continued: “Yes, we have had tremendous battles. But when have I protected her? And when has he protected me?