During a recent press conference, Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, encountered a moment that garnered widespread attention on social media platforms. Indianapolis Star reporter Gregg Doyel posed a question that left Clark unsure how to respond, leading to an exchange that many perceived as awkward. In an attempt to maintain a light-hearted atmosphere, Doyel made a gesture off camera, prompting Clark to respond with, “you like that.” Doyel then remarked, “I like that you’re here,” to which Clark replied, “I do that to my family after every game so, it’s pretty cool.” The interaction culminated in awkward laughter from those present, and the clip quickly went viral, prompting scrutiny of Doyel’s intentions.
Reporter: 🫶
Caitlin Clark: "You like that?"
Reporter: "I like that you're here."
Caitlin: "Yeah, I do that at my family after every game.”
Reporter: "Start doing it to me and we'll get along just fine."
Caitlin: 😳
(via @IndianaFever / YT)pic.twitter.com/BBjU881K7a
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 17, 2024
Subsequently, Doyel issued an apology for the exchange, acknowledging his poor choice of words and the unintended clumsiness of his actions. In his statement, he expressed sincere regret for any offense caused and emphasized his well-intentioned gesture towards Clark.
Today in my uniquely oafish way, while welcoming @CaitlinClark22 to Indy, I formed my hands into her signature 🫶. My comment afterward was clumsy and awkward. I sincerely apologize. Please know my heart (literally and figuratively) was well-intentioned. I will do better.
— Gregg Doyel (@GreggDoyelStar) April 17, 2024
Looking ahead to her professional career, Clark is poised for immediate impact with the Indiana Fever, as the majority of their regular-season games will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. Her collegiate success, highlighted by her status as the all-time leading scorer in college basketball, has generated significant anticipation for her transition to the WNBA. Despite skepticism from some in the basketball community, including players like Diana Taurasi, Clark remains confident in her abilities and views the challenge as an opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. In a recent interview, she reflected on her childhood aspirations of playing in the WNBA, expressing excitement for the journey ahead.
