Meta Description: USA Today defends its columnist Christine Brennan after the WNBPA criticizes her questioning of DiJonai Carrington regarding a foul on Caitlin Clark.
Brennan’s Questioning Sparks Controversy
USA Today columnist Christine Brennan faced criticism after questioning Connecticut Sun guard DiJonai Carrington about a play involving Caitlin Clark13. During a playoff game, Carrington made contact with Clark’s eye, leading Brennan to inquire whether the contact was intentional3. This line of questioning drew the ire of many within the WNBA community.
WNBPA Condemns Brennan’s Actions
The WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) released a statement condemning Brennan’s interview as a blatant attempt to bait Carrington into a false narrative13. The WNBPA accused Brennan of fueling racist, homophobic, and misogynistic vitriol on social media and called for USA Today to review her ethics1. They also suggested Brennan’s credentials to cover the league should be revoked, citing bias and ulterior motives due to her upcoming book on Clark.
USA Today Defends Brennan’s Journalistic Integrity
USA Today issued a statement defending Brennan, asserting that journalists ask questions and seek truth, and their mission is to report in an unbiased manner3. They rejected the notion that the interview perpetuated any narrative other than to get the player’s perspective directly. USA Today emphasized Brennan’s reputation as an advocate for women and athletes, but first and foremost, a journalist.
Aftermath and Clarifications
Following the controversy, Sarah Spain reported that Brennan filed a complaint with the league regarding an exchange with DeWanna Bonner, a teammate of Carrington. However, Brennan refuted this claim, stating that she had not filed a complaint. Spain later clarified that Brennan reported the incident to league PR but did not officially file a complaint4.
Brennan’s Stance
Christine Brennan defended her line of questioning, stating that she was giving the athlete an opportunity to answer the question and provide her perspective on what happened. She added that she would ask the same question “100 times out of 100″7. Brennan also noted that the players union never contacted her.
