When a WNBA superstar and a political activist collide, you know the drama is going to be spicier than a double-overtime thriller. This time, it’s Caitlin Clark, TIME’s Athlete of the Year and Indiana Fever’s rookie sensation, finding herself in the eye of a social media hurricane. Her alleged offense? Speaking about the recognition Black players deserve in shaping the WNBA’s legacy. And let’s just say, not everyone appreciated her candid take.
Former swimmer-turned-political activist Riley Gaines was quick to chime in, dropping a digital “hot take” hotter than any post-game locker room rant. Gaines criticized Clark for not staying “neutral” and implied the rookie should avoid venturing into socially conscious commentary. In her post on X (formerly Twitter, RIP old bird), Gaines wrote:
“No one was asking for Caitlin Clark to position herself as a right-wing hero. All she needed to do was remain neutral. She’s a phenom who inspires countless young girls to play & achieve, so I still have great admiration for her, but she missed the mark on this one.”
Cue the popcorn, because here comes Olympic track queen Gabby Thomas with a response that could shatter any relay record for speed and impact. Thomas clapped back with a fiery retort on social media, telling Gaines to take a lap—figuratively, of course.
“Girl are you fr??? You don’t have to share your opinion on everything, just sit this one out.”
Mic drop.
Caitlin Clark: Phenomenon, Debate Magnet, and TIME Athlete of the Year
Caitlin Clark has been a walking headline generator ever since she burst onto the WNBA scene. Her mind-boggling stats and clutch plays haven’t just put the Indiana Fever back on the map—they’ve catapulted her to global stardom. TIME Magazine crowned her Athlete of the Year for her efforts to shine a spotlight on women’s sports, a title only two individual female athletes, including Simone Biles, have ever earned.
But Clark’s rise hasn’t been without its share of court-side debates and online theatrics. Her willingness to talk about topics that go beyond basketball—like acknowledging the contributions of Black players to the WNBA—has some cheering her as a role model and others ready to pull technical fouls on her public statements.
Gabby Thomas to the Rescue: Not Her First Assist
If this was basketball, Gabby Thomas’ latest move would count as a game-winning block. But it’s not her first assist for Clark either. Just months ago, Thomas and gymnastics legend Simone Biles attended an Indiana Fever game to support the rookie star. The Olympians cheered louder than a coach on a buzzer-beater, and their surprise locker-room greeting made headlines for its feel-good vibes.
Reflecting on that moment during her stint as Grand Marshal of the 2024 New York City Marathon, Thomas said:
“Simone and I went to the Fever game, which was incredible. The energy in that stadium was fantastic. It’s so great to see the support and excitement athletes have for one another. We’re all watching and rooting for each other.”
Well, except Riley Gaines, apparently.
Fans Weigh In: Who’s Got the Better Shot—Thomas or Gaines?
Social media erupted in a frenzy, with fans taking sides faster than a referee during a fast break. Some applauded Thomas for calling out unnecessary criticism, while others defended Gaines for her “neutrality” stance. One X user wrote:
“Gabby Thomas always knows how to bring the heat. Riley Gaines, take notes—this isn’t a freestyle swimming event.”
Another countered:
“Caitlin Clark should stick to basketball. Athletes need to understand that their words carry weight.”
The Verdict
Caitlin Clark continues to do what she does best—breaking barriers, shattering records, and occasionally stirring up a little controversy along the way. Whether you see her as an outspoken phenom or just a rookie finding her voice, one thing’s for sure: the WNBA has never been more exciting to watch.
As for Gabby Thomas, her gold-medal clapbacks are as impressive as her track speed, proving that the sisterhood of athletes is alive, well, and not afraid to defend its own.
Who needs reality TV when sports drama delivers this much entertainment? Stay tuned for the next episode, folks.
