Jul 24, 2026; Chiacgo, IL, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark speaks during WNBA All-Star Weekend Media Day at Obama Presidential Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
(New York, NY) – A USA Today column about Caitlin Clark is drawing sharp backlash after columnist Nancy Armour invoked Emmett Till while writing about Clark, officiating complaints and the atmosphere around the WNBA.
Critics said the comparison was inflammatory and inappropriate. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy was among the loudest voices calling for accountability, saying the backlash should cost Armour her job.
The controversy centers on a broader debate over Clark’s star power, how fans react to her treatment on the court and how media outlets frame race, popularity and criticism around the league.
Armour later acknowledged that the comparison was inartful, but the criticism has continued as the WNBA enters a high-profile All-Star weekend.
