Comedian Shane Gillis stirred controversy during the 2025 ESPYs on Wednesday night by delivering a contentious Caitlin Clark WNBA off-color joke. As the event’s host, Gillis referenced Clark’s recent physical challenges in the WNBA and the intensity she faces on the court, drawing mixed reactions from the audience and wider sports community.
Jokes Draw Attention to Clark’s Physical Struggles in the WNBA
Clark, a prominent figure in the league, had recently re-injured her groin during a matchup against the Connecticut Sun, sparking discussions about the physical toll on players. Gillis highlighted these skirmishes in his opening segment, noting the harsh treatment Clark endures as
“the face of a fiercely competitive league.”
His joke suggested that when Clark retires, she might continue her combative encounters by working at a Waffle House,
“so she can keep doing what she loves most, fist-fighting black women,”
a line that provoked laughter but also discomfort among attendees.
Backlash and Implications for League and Comedian
Several players, including Chennedy Carter, DiJonai Carrington, and Marina Mabrey, were implied as part of the joke’s target, which added to the contentious nature of Gillis’s performance. Known previously for his firing from Saturday Night Live over politically incorrect humor, Gillis now finds himself hosting primetime events for ESPN, a network recognized for embracing progressive values. His comments highlight a tenuous balance between edgy comedy and sensitivity to racial and gender dynamics within professional sports.
Growing Spotlight on Caitlin Clark Amidst Intense Competition
Despite the physical challenges, Clark has attracted considerable attention and revenue to the WNBA, raising questions about the league’s physicality and player safety. Gillis’s remarks brought these issues into public conversation, albeit through a controversial lens, underscoring the complexity of Clark’s position as both a star athlete and a target on the court.
What the Future Holds for ESPN and Host Shane Gillis
Gillis’s presence at the ESPYs, combined with his provocative style, signals a potential shift in ESPN’s approach to event hosting and comedic commentary. Whether this strategy will resonate positively or invite further criticism remains to be seen, especially as the network navigates its branding in a socially conscious era. Meanwhile, the attention on Caitlin Clark continues to grow, spotlighting ongoing conversations about the treatment of female athletes in high-stakes sports environments.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Caitlin Clark with Taylor Swift at the Chiefs game?
A. The Caitlin Clark effect refers to women’s basketball becoming more popular because of American player Caitlin Clark’s influence.
Q. Was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift at the game?
A. In a private suite at Arrowhead Stadium, the two women watched the Chiefs win their first playoff game against the Houston Texans.
Q. Why is Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift at the game?
A. Swift was spotted sitting next to WNBA athlete Caitlin Clark at the Chiefs’ home game against the Houston Texans. Clark attended after announcing that Swift had invited her to watch a Chiefs game from her suite.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. Caitlin Clark received all Eras Tour T-shirts and sweatshirts from Taylor Swift. During the 2024 Eras Tour stop in Indianapolis, Swift made sure Clark got four bags filled with merchandise.