Brittney Griner has firmly denied the claims that she made an insulting comment towards Caitlin Clark, after a viral video suggested she said an offensive phrase about the basketball star during a recent game. The incident reportedly occurred last month during a contest between Griner’s Atlanta Dream and the Indiana Fever, following a contentious foul call.
Griner, visibly frustrated at the time, was accused of saying a derogatory phrase aimed either at Clark or the official. Speaking to Outkick’s Dan Zaksheske, Griner rejected these accusations, stating that the language attributed to her was inaccurate and that her anger was solely related to the foul call, not aimed at any player.
“Like, there’s no place for that in our league … I know it wasn’t that because I wouldn’t use that type of language.”
—Brittney Griner, WNBA player
Context of Griner’s on-court frustrations this season
This season marks Griner’s debut with the Atlanta Dream after an 11-year career with the Phoenix Mercury, where she established herself as a dominant presence and earned numerous accolades, including nine All-Star selections, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a WNBA championship in 2014. Despite her reputation for elite play, Griner has faced more headlines this season for her outbursts directed at officials, including a recent mid-game CBS interview where she loudly told referees to “be (expletive) better.”
Her frustration during games has been noticeable, but Griner maintains that the specific phrase circulating on social media is taken out of context and does not reflect her true words or intent.
Caitlin Clark’s reaction and recent performance highlights
To date, Caitlin Clark has not publicly addressed the alleged remarks made by Griner. Instead, Clark lightened the mood with humor during a press conference following the Indiana Fever’s 102-88 win at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Returning from injury after three weeks, Clark teased a reporter whose phone rang during the session, joking about her own inability to multitask.
“You can’t ask a question on your phone and your phone ring,”
Clark said with a smile.
You can ask the question after you turn it off. There you go. I’m not a good multitasker. I can’t hear.”
—Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever player
Clark had an impressive showing in her return, scoring 32 points along with eight rebounds and nine assists, nearly achieving a triple-double. She scored 25 of those points before halftime, shooting 6-of-8 from beyond the arc. The Fever as a team sank 17 three-pointers in the game, just shy of the WNBA regular-season record.
Implications for the players and the teams involved
This incident highlights the ongoing tension within the competitive WNBA environment, with emotions running high and scrutiny from the public intensified by social media. Griner’s strong denial underscores the sensitivity around language and player conduct, especially given the league’s commitment to inclusivity and respect.
Moving forward, both Griner and Clark will likely continue focusing on their on-court performance. Griner aims to solidify her role with the Dream, while Clark’s outstanding return promises to boost the Fever’s chances in the season. The broader attention on their exchange may prompt more caution around in-game reactions and public interpretations, as the WNBA season advances.