‘Written in 1971’: Columnist apologises after awkward interaction with Caitlin Clark

A columnist for the Indianapolis Star has apologised after an uncomfortable interaction with Caitlin Clark at a press conference on Wednesday.

Before Doyel asked his question he made a heart sign with his hands, a gesture that Clark was known for during her record-breaking college career with Iowa.

Doyel replied: “OK, well start doing that to me and we’ll get along just fine.” Clark did not respond to the comment.

Veteran ESPN writer Don Van Natta Jr wrote on X that “this sounds like a hack Hollywood screenwriter’s idea of a sportswriter’s cool banter.

Dana O’Neil, a senior writer at The Athletic, was one of a number of people who wondered if Doyel would have used the same line on an NBA player.

The Athletic reported on Wednesday that Clark is nearing an eight-figure endorsement deal with Nike that will include a signature shoe.