It started as a routine Hot Topics segment. The panel was discussing the meteoric rise of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever rookie whose record-breaking performances and headline-grabbing style have made her the face of the WNBA’s new era. As the conversation turned to Clark’s impact on the league, Whoopi Goldberg—never one to shy away from controversy—leaned forward and delivered the line that would echo across the internet:
“Let’s be real, y’all. This is just another white girl trying to take over a Black sport.”
The studio fell silent. Co-hosts Joy Behar and Sunny Hostin exchanged wide-eyed glances, while the audience gasped. Within minutes, clips of the exchange were circulating on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, sparking intense reactions from fans, athletes, and commentators across the country.
Social Media Erupts
The backlash was immediate and intense. #WhoopiOut and #StandWithCaitlin began trending as fans rushed to defend Clark and condemn Goldberg’s remarks.“Caitlin Clark is a generational talent, and her race has nothing to do with her love for the game,” wrote one user. “Why can’t we just celebrate greatness without making it about color?”
Others accused Goldberg of perpetuating racial division. “Imagine if someone said the reverse on national TV,” one post read. “This double standard has to stop.”
But not everyone was critical. Some users echoed Goldberg’s concerns, pointing to a long history of Black women building the WNBA and the recent surge in attention as white players like Clark and Sabrina Ionescu rise to prominence.
“Whoopi said what a lot of people are thinking,” commented another. “Let’s not pretend race doesn’t play a role in who gets the spotlight in women’s sports.”
A Complicated History
The WNBA has long been celebrated for its diversity and the central role of Black athletes in building the league’s culture and success. Legends like Lisa Leslie, Tamika Catchings, and Sheryl Swoopes paved the way for future generations, often without the mainstream recognition or endorsement deals now flowing to the league’s newest stars.
Caitlin Clark, a standout at Iowa before joining the Fever, has drawn comparisons to NBA icons for her deep shooting, electric passing, and confident swagger. She’s also brought a wave of new fans and media attention to the WNBA—something league officials and sponsors have welcomed.
But as Clark’s star rises, questions about race, representation, and who benefits from the league’s newfound popularity have become impossible to ignore.
Voices from the League
Current and former WNBA players were quick to weigh in. A’ja Wilson, two-time MVP and one of the league’s most outspoken voices, posted:
“We need to celebrate ALL the women who built this league AND the ones bringing new eyes to it. Let’s lift each other up, not tear each other down.”
Meanwhile, former player and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike urged fans to see the bigger picture. “Women’s basketball is finally getting the attention it deserves. Let’s use this moment to support each other and keep pushing for equality—for everyone.”
The View Responds
By midday, ABC had released a brief statement acknowledging the controversy.
“We believe in open, honest conversations about important issues. The View is committed to giving voice to diverse perspectives, and we encourage our hosts and viewers to engage respectfully.”
Whoopi Goldberg, for her part, addressed the backlash on her Instagram story later that evening:
“I stand by my words, but I also stand for dialogue. If we want to grow as a sport and as a country, we need to talk about the hard stuff—even if it makes us uncomfortable.”
Clark’s Response: Grace Under Pressure
Caitlin Clark, who has faced both adulation and criticism since entering the league, took the high road when asked about Goldberg’s comments after practice.
“I’ve always respected the women who came before me and the players I share the court with,” Clark said. “Basketball is for everyone. I just want to play, compete, and inspire the next generation—no matter who they are or where they come from.”
Her teammates echoed her sentiment, emphasizing unity and the importance of growing the game together.
Moving Forward: A League at a Crossroads
The firestorm surrounding Goldberg’s comments is a reminder of just how much is at stake as women’s basketball enters a new era. With record audiences, new sponsorships, and a surge in young talent, the WNBA is more visible—and more scrutinized—than ever before.
As the league continues to evolve, the conversation about race, representation, and who gets to be the face of women’s basketball will undoubtedly continue. But if there’s one thing most fans and players agree on, it’s that the game is bigger than any one person or controversy.
