In today’s media landscape, even the most routine press conferences can generate headlines, as witnessed by the recent exchange between Indianapolis Star columnist Gregg Doyel and WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark.
The incident occurred during Clark’s introductory press conference with the Indiana Fever, where Doyel’s actions sparked controversy and led to a heated response from Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy.
Dave Portnoy calls Gregg Doyel ‘pervert’ over Caitlin Clark interaction https://t.co/NKJvmSaDYk pic.twitter.com/9xdVEF7Ao4
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 17, 2024
During the press conference, Doyel, known for his sports coverage, initiated an unusual exchange with Clark by mimicking her signature heart hands gesture.
While Clark appeared to take the gesture in stride, the interaction took a peculiar turn when Doyel suggested she extend the gesture to him regularly. The exchange was captured on video and quickly circulated online.
— Don Barzini (@DonBarziniXX) April 17, 2024
Portnoy, never one to shy away from controversy, took to Twitter to denounce Doyel’s behavior. He shared an article from Barstool Sports labeling Doyel’s actions as inappropriate, with the headline “Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever Career Begins With Gregg Doyel Being A Total Creep To Her At Introductory Press Conference.” Portnoy went a step further, directly accusing Doyel of being a “pervert” in his tweet.
Doyel faced criticism from various quarters for his conduct during the press conference, with many questioning the appropriateness of his remarks, particularly in the context of women’s sports coverage.
Portnoy’s reaction, however, stood out due to the language he used and the potential legal ramifications it could entail.
As the controversy unfolded, Doyel remained silent on social media until later in the day. In a subsequent tweet, he issued an apology for his actions and hinted at an upcoming column addressing the incident.
Today in my uniquely oafish way, while welcoming @CaitlinClark22 to Indy, I formed my hands into her signature 🫶. My comment afterward was clumsy and awkward. I sincerely apologize. Please know my heart (literally and figuratively) was well-intentioned. I will do better.
— Gregg Doyel (@GreggDoyelStar) April 17, 2024
