On April 17, 2024, just days after the WNBA Draft, Indy Star columnist Gregg Doyel made an awkward attempt to be friendly with Caitlin Clark.
Before asking his question, he formed a heart with his hands towards Clark, referencing a gesture she made to her family during college games.
He then followed it with comments like “We’ll get along just fine” if she did it for him too.
Doyel’s actions were widely criticized as unprofessional and potentially sexist. He issued apologies on social media and in a column for the Indy Star. He acknowledged that he crossed a line and aimed to be welcoming but ended up offending Clark and her family.
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
Now, as per TMZ reports, Doyel is facing a suspension after an awkward exchange with WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark during her introductory press conference.
Currently, he is serving a two-week suspension. Doyel is expected to return to work on May 13, 2024. Interestingly, while he will continue to write columns about the Indiana Fever, he will be barred from attending any of their games in person for the entire season. This means his WNBA coverage will be based on watching games on television.
