Republican lawmakers have called on WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to ensure better player safety, specifically for Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. In a letter led by Rep. August Pfluger, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, a dozen members of Congress expressed concerns that the league has not adequately protected its most prominent player from "repeated acts of unnecessary physical hostility and violence."
The lawmakers emphasized Clark's significant impact on the WNBA's popularity, noting her role in increasing fan interest, driving record television ratings, and attracting new corporate sponsors. "She has inspired a new generation of young girls to participate in athletics and has become one of the most influential figures in the history of women's basketball," the letter stated. "She is also the face of your league."
The letter highlighted several incidents, including Clark being "hip-checked, poked in the eye, and struck in the throat during games." The lawmakers argue these incidents go beyond standard competitive play and that the league has failed to hold players accountable.
Specifically, the letter referenced a June 24 game against the Phoenix Mercury where an incident involving player Alyssa Thomas was initially reviewed for a flagrant foul but not called. The league later upgraded the play to a Flagrant 2, resulting in Thomas's suspension. Clark had stated after the game that officials missed the call in real time and that the league needs to "do a better job protecting the people in this league."
The congressional group asserted that Engelbert has an obligation to ensure "every player competes in a safe and professional environment, both on and off the court, free from violence, discrimination, or retaliation." They suggested that if such conduct is occurring and creating a hostile work environment, appropriate investigations by federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, would be supported, as such conduct could violate federal civil rights laws.
The lawmakers concluded by urging the WNBA to take stronger action, stating that the league's opportunity to inspire young athletes is undermined when its stars are not adequately protected. "Your fans deserve better, and so do the young girls who look to the WNBA as a model for excellence, sportsmanship, and opportunity," the letter read.
The concerns come as the WNBA faces ongoing criticism regarding officiating and player safety. Despite an offseason overhaul and the formation of a task force of coaches and executives to address physicality and freedom of movement, frustrations persist among league personnel regarding inconsistent calls and accountability.