WNBA star Jonquel Jones has refuted allegations that there was a coordinated bullying campaign directed at Caitlin Clark during the previous season. Clark, the Indiana Fever’s standout rookie and top draft pick, electrified the league with an exceptional season that earned her Rookie of the Year honors but concluded with an early playoff exit.
Clark’s stunning debut attracted intense defensive focus, and she endured several hard fouls throughout games. Speculation arose that this aggressive treatment stemmed from envy due to Clark’s rapid rise and the significant attention she brought to women’s basketball and the WNBA.
However, Jones, who secured the WNBA title and Finals MVP with the New York Liberty, dismissed these claims, emphasizing that there was no personal vendetta against Clark. Speaking on the “Kickin It With Dee” podcast, Jones stated, “It was odd seeing narratives on social media that just weren’t true. We’re out there competing fiercely as professionals; it’s our job as athletes.”
Jones elaborated that players were simply playing hard against Clark out of respect, not malice. “It wasn’t about bullying or targeting her—it was about going out there to compete. The greatest respect you can show an opponent is playing them tough.”
Clark endured numerous physical challenges, including a notable shove by Chennedy Carter of the Chicago Sky and incidents involving Angel Reese and Dana Evans. A September game against the Connecticut Sun saw DiJonai Carrington’s inadvertent poke give Clark a black eye. Despite these encounters, Clark showcased her prowess, averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and leading the league with 8.4 assists per game.
This upcoming season, Clark will be under the guidance of Stephanie White, who returns as head coach of the Fever. White, previously an assistant and head coach for the team, helped them secure the 2012 WNBA title. Her appointment follows the departure of Christie Sides, who led the team to a balanced 20-20 record and their first playoff appearance since 2016.
