The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) issued a scathing statement on Friday, condemning USA Today sports columnist Christine Brennan over an interview with Connecticut Sun guard Dijonai Carrington.
The union claims that Brennan’s questioning led to a surge of “racist, homophobic, and misogynistic vitriol” aimed at Carrington, both online and in person.
The controversy arose after a moment in Game 1 of the Sun’s first-round playoff series against the Indiana Fever, during which Carrington appeared to unintentionally hit Fever rookie Caitlin Clark in the eye while trying to block a pass.
No foul was called, and Clark later clarified that she did not believe the hit was intentional. However, during an on-court interview with Carrington, Brennan asked if the contact was deliberate, sparking backlash from the WNBPA.
Carrington responded, “I don’t even know why I would intend to hit anybody in the eye. That doesn’t even make sense to me. But, no, I didn’t… I was trying to make a play on the ball, and I guess I followed through.”
Shortly after the interview, Carrington received a threatening and racist email, which she shared on social media.
WNBPA’s fierce response and call for action
The WNBPA did not hold back in its response, publicly calling out Brennan for her line of questioning. The union accused Brennan of intentionally baiting Carrington to stir controversy and amplify harmful narratives.
“This week was dedicated to celebrating and amplifying A’ja, Caitlin, DiJonai, and Napheesa for their hard work and truly exceptional performances all season long,” the WNBPA’s statement read.
“We were not going to distract from their successes, nor would we dim the glow of the spotlight that centered them. They have earned that focus and celebration. But we will take this moment now to stand up for them and the rest of our members. Every single one of them. Because we call B.S.
“To unprofessional members of the media like Christine Brennan: You are not fooling anyone. That so-called interview in the name of journalism was a blatant attempt to bait a professional athlete into participating in a narrative that is false and designed to fuel racist, homophobic, and misogynistic vitriol on social media. You cannot hide behind your tenure.”
In addition to criticizing Brennan, the WNBPA called for USA Today to review its ethical standards and demanded accountability. The union argued that Brennan “abused her privileges” as a journalist and should face consequences for her actions.
They also urged the WNBA to review its media policies and take steps to protect players from similar incidents.
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The WNBA has since responded, stating that the league is actively monitoring threats directed at players and will involve law enforcement as needed. The union’s statement comes just days after Sun star Alyssa Thomas condemned racist behavior from Fever fans following Game 1 of the playoff series.
As Carrington and her team prepare for their semifinal clash with the Minnesota Lynx, the WNBPA has made it clear that they stand firmly in support of their players, demanding better protection and fairness in coverage.
