WNBA superstar and former Iowa standout Caitlin Clark has reaffirmed previous remarks she made about “white privilege” and acknowledged the foundational role Black women have played in the growth of the WNBA.

In a recent interview with David Letterman on the Netflix series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, Clark echoed and expanded on statements she initially made in 2023 after being named TIME’s “Athlete of the Year.”

“I definitely have privilege,” Clark told Letterman.

“I’m obviously white, but I think I’m somebody who grew up a huge fan of this league. I grew up watching this league, going to games, supporting this league.”

Gold. Upgraded. Buy real gold from $1. Store it in America. Sell it with one click.

MORE NEWS: Blood Brothers? P.J. Fleck and Maverick Baranowski Share a Great Moment

During the interview, Clark also stated that she is aware of the league’s roots and the contributions of those who came before her.

“So I know where this league comes from: a lot of Black women that grew up making this league what it is,” Clark said.

“And that’s kind of the shoulders that we stand on. So I think that was something I’m very aware of, and something I’m very thankful for. And they deserve all the credit, and the more we can give credit to them, the better. I’m very aware of that, and I know that, and I think there is responsibility in acknowledging that.”

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

Following recent reports that Congress is considering a nationwide voter ID requirement for federal elections, do you support requiring voters to show identification before casting a ballot?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from LifeZette, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

Clark’s original comments came in December 2023, when she spoke to TIME magazine after receiving its “Athlete of the Year” honor.

At the time, she addressed the issue of race and privilege within the context of her rising stardom in the league.

“I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege,” Clark said.

“A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them. The more we can appreciate that, highlight that, talk about that, and then continue to have brands and companies invest in those players that have made this league incredible, I think it’s very important. I have to continue to try to change that. The more we can elevate Black women, that’s going to be a beautiful thing.”

Close

MORE NEWS: Oregon QB Dante Moore Taken to Hospital Following Late USC Hit

Clark, who became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer during her college career and was selected No. 1 overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, has largely remained focused on basketball throughout her rise in the spotlight.

Her comments on privilege and race mark one of the few times she has addressed social or political topics in public settings.

The 22-year-old guard’s remarks have generated attention and discussion across media and sports platforms, particularly as she transitions from a high-profile college career to the professional stage.

Her impact on ticket sales, television ratings, and merchandising has been widely covered, with many crediting her with drawing new audiences to the women’s game.

Clark’s acknowledgment of privilege and recognition of the contributions of Black athletes in building the WNBA comes at a time when conversations about representation, equity, and visibility in women’s sports continue to be prominent across the professional landscape.

Gold is the oldest answer. SoundMoney makes owning it as easy as the apps you already use.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.