Renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has weighed in on a growing controversy surrounding the treatment of WNBA star Caitlin Clark, suggesting his support for a federal investigation into the league’s handling of physical play against the rising basketball sensation.
Smith’s comments come in response to a recent Wall Street Journal opinion piece titled “The WNBA and Caitlin Clark’s Civil Rights.” The article sparked widespread debate earlier this week by arguing that Clark has been repeatedly subjected to overly aggressive and unpunished physical contact during games — dating back to her rookie season in 2024. The piece went a step further by calling for a federal probe into what it characterized as a potentially hostile work environment, raising the question of whether Clark’s civil rights have been violated under current workplace laws.
The WSJ editorial claimed that the level of unchecked physicality directed at Clark not only threatens player safety but may also constitute unequal treatment under the law. Given her quick rise to stardom and her visibility as a White athlete in a predominantly Black league, the situation has drawn scrutiny from multiple angles — both legal and cultural.
Stephen A. Smith, never one to shy away from controversial or polarizing topics, addressed the article on ESPN’s First Take, saying that the WNBA and its officiating need to be held accountable for what many are beginning to see as an unfair and potentially dangerous precedent. While Smith did not explicitly accuse the league of discrimination, he acknowledged that the repeated failure to properly officiate games involving Clark raises legitimate concerns.
“Do I believe there should be questions asked? Absolutely,” Smith said. “Because the bottom line is this: If she’s not being protected the way other stars in other leagues would be, that’s a problem. And if it’s not just a problem — but a pattern — then yes, it might be something for the federal government to look at.”
Clark, who entered the WNBA with record-breaking fanfare after a historic college career at Iowa, has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in professional sports. Yet her inaugural season has been marred by a series of highly physical matchups where officials have been criticized for turning a blind eye. Critics argue that the lack of protection could discourage future talent and stunt the league’s growth.
Though some view the call for a federal investigation as extreme, others — including Smith — believe it may be necessary to prompt institutional accountability and ensure that every athlete, regardless of their background or status, is treated with fairness and respect on the court.
Stephen A. Smith Backs Federal Investigation into WNBA’s Treatment of Caitlin Clark Amid Civil Rights Concerns
Renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has weighed in on a growing controversy surrounding the treatment of WNBA star Caitlin Clark, suggesting his support for a federal investigation into the league’s handling of physical play against the rising basketball sensation.
Smith’s comments come in response to a recent Wall Street Journal opinion piece titled “The WNBA and Caitlin Clark’s Civil Rights.” The article sparked widespread debate earlier this week by arguing that Clark has been repeatedly subjected to overly aggressive and unpunished physical contact during games — dating back to her rookie season in 2024. The piece went a step further by calling for a federal probe into what it characterized as a potentially hostile work environment, raising the question of whether Clark’s civil rights have been violated under current workplace laws.
The WSJ editorial claimed that the level of unchecked physicality directed at Clark not only threatens player safety but may also constitute unequal treatment under the law. Given her quick rise to stardom and her visibility as a White athlete in a predominantly Black league, the situation has drawn scrutiny from multiple angles — both legal and cultural.
Stephen A. Smith, never one to shy away from controversial or polarizing topics, addressed the article on ESPN’s First Take, saying that the WNBA and its officiating need to be held accountable for what many are beginning to see as an unfair and potentially dangerous precedent. While Smith did not explicitly accuse the league of discrimination, he acknowledged that the repeated failure to properly officiate games involving Clark raises legitimate concerns.
“Do I believe there should be questions asked? Absolutely,” Smith said. “Because the bottom line is this: If she’s not being protected the way other stars in other leagues would be, that’s a problem. And if it’s not just a problem — but a pattern — then yes, it might be something for the federal government to look at.”
Clark, who entered the WNBA with record-breaking fanfare after a historic college career at Iowa, has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in professional sports. Yet her inaugural season has been marred by a series of highly physical matchups where officials have been criticized for turning a blind eye. Critics argue that the lack of protection could discourage future talent and stunt the league’s growth.
Though some view the call for a federal investigation as extreme, others — including Smith — believe it may be necessary to prompt institutional accountability and ensure that every athlete, regardless of their background or status, is treated with fairness and respect on the court.
As public debate intensifies, the WNBA has yet to issue a formal response to the Wall Street Journal article or to Smith’s comments. However, with major media voices now elevating the issue, the league may soon be forced to confront questions not just of officiating, but of equity, safety, and the broader responsibilities it holds as a professional sports organization.
As public debate intensifies, the WNBA has yet to issue a formal response to the Wall Street Journal article or to Smith’s comments. However, with major media voices now elevating the issue, the league may soon be forced to confront questions not just of officiating, but of equity, safety, and the broader responsibilities it holds as a professional sports organization.