League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Dave Portnoy supports Caitlin Clark amid trans athlete controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 4:26 AM

Last updated Aug 4, 2026

Dave Portnoy supports Caitlin Clark amid trans athlete controversy

Summary

Dave Portnoy has defended Caitlin Clark after her comments on the debate regarding trans athletes in women’s sports. Following a loss to the Minnesota Lynx, Clark addressed the issue, stating it is not a topic discussed in the locker room and is better suited for league governing bodies. Her measured response provoked mixed reactions, including accusations of cowardice from some; however, Portnoy criticized this view, emphasizing her right to focus on basketball. The debate over trans participation in sports continues to draw attention as the WNBA playoffs approach, with the Fever currently holding a 19-11 record.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Portnoy defends Clark after backlash over her comments.
•Clark says locker room discussions exclude political topics.
•Indiana Fever is 19-11 and tied for fifth in standings.
•Sophie Cunningham sparked debate with her stance on trans athletes.
•WNBA playoffs are approaching amidst ongoing discussions.

Latest Updates

4:26 AMYahoo Sports — Dave Portnoy defends Caitlin Clark after her answer on Sophie Cunningham controversy

What they're saying

"
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has reacted to Caitlin Clark’s comments when pressed for an answer on the debate of trans athletes in women’s sports. Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham has stirred the pot on a worldwide debate on trans athletes in women’s sports by advocating that biological males be kept away from athletic spaces for biological women.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Indiana Fever Minnesota Lynx Phoenix Mercury WNBA Basketball