The introductory press conference for Caitlin Clark with the WNBA’s Indiana Fever took an uncomfortable turn as a local reporter, Gregg Doyel of the Indianapolis Star, made a cringeworthy interaction that seemed like flirting with the rookie sensation. As Clark was introduced to Indiana media members for the first time since being drafted by the Fever, Doyel approached the microphone to ask her a question about her new hometown.
Gregg Doyle: “Real quick. Let me do this.”
Caitlin Clark: “You like that?”
Gregg Doyle: “I like that you’re here. I like that you’re here.”
Caitlin Clark: “Yeah. I do that at my family after every game. So, it’s pretty cool.”
Gregg Doyle: “Ok, well, let’s start doing it to me and we’ll get along just fine.”
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
Initially, Doyel’s introduction seemed innocuous, but things quickly took a strange turn when he paused and made a heart-shaped gesture with his hands towards the 22-year-old guard. Clark, visibly taken aback by the unexpected gesture, responded with a bit of awkwardness. Doyel’s response only added to the discomfort. The room erupted in nervous laughter, but Clark appeared visibly uncomfortable in her chair.
Despite the awkward exchange, Clark maintained her composure and proceeded to answer Doyel’s question, allowing the press conference to continue without further incident. However, the moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans and observers criticizing Doyel for his inappropriate and unprofessional behavior.
Many took to social media to express their displeasure with Doyel’s actions, labeling them as inappropriate and creepy. Some called for Doyel to have his credentials revoked, while others demanded a public apology from the reporter.
In response to the backlash, Doyel issued an apology, acknowledging his “clumsy and awkward” comment and vowing to “do better” in the future.
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
However, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism and respect in sports journalism, especially when interacting with athletes, regardless of gender.
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