Caitlin Clark admits feeling ‘privilege’ as a White person, says WNBA was ‘built on’ Black players

Caitlin Clark, after typically staying quiet about her name being involved in cultural disputes, finally spoke up.

The WNBA star was recognized as Time’s Athlete of the Year for her impactful contributions to women’s basketball and women’s sports.

Upon joining the league, there were remarks made about her being White.

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Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever speaks to the media at an introductory press conference on April 17, 2024, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.  (Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)

WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson addressed the significance of Clark being White in relation to her popularity. Angel Reese also mentioned encountering “a lot of racism” from fans in Iowa and Indiana Fever. DiJonai Carrington, a player for the Connecticut Sun, criticized Clark for not taking a firmer stand against racism, even after Carrington accidentally poked Clark in the eye during a playoff game against the Fever.

During her interview with Time, Clark seemed to acknowledge Wilson’s point to some degree.

“I want to acknowledge that I’ve worked hard for everything, but as a White individual, I have privilege,” Clark shared with Time. “A lot of the exceptional players in the league have been Black players. This league has largely been shaped by them. 

“It’s crucial to recognize, celebrate, and support those players who have been instrumental in making this league outstanding. I feel a responsibility to contribute to changing the narrative. Elevating Black women more will be truly inspirational.”

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark reacts during a first-round WNBA playoff game against the Connecticut Sun on September 25, 2024, in Uncasville, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)

WNBA STAR CAITLIN CLARK NAMED TIME ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AFTER HISTORIC SEASON: ‘JUST SCRATCHING THE SURFACE’

In June, Clark mentioned that she wasn’t bothered by people linking her name to various narratives.

“I don’t have control over that. I don’t dwell on such matters. Honestly, I don’t pay much notice to it,” Clark stated previously.

“As I’ve said before, basketball is my focus. I can’t control external factors. So, I won’t spend my time thinking about that. People can discuss whatever they want and spark conversations about whatever they like, but personally, I’m here to play basketball. I’m here to enjoy myself and help my team succeed. We’ve won three games, and I believe we could have won a few more. My objective is helping us achieve that. I don’t pay attention to all the noise.”

Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever celebrates during a game on August 16, 2024, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. (Michael Hickey/NBAE via Getty Images)

In September, Clark referred to racist fans as “trolls.”

“No one in our league should face racism, disrespect, hurtful comments, or threats,” she emphasized at that time.

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Clark was named the Rookie of the Year for the league and played a pivotal role in boosting historic attendance and viewership.

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