Reporter Apologizes for 'Awkward' Exchange With Caitlin Clark at Fever Press Conference

Karl Rasmussen | Apr 17, 2024

Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark during her introductory press conference / Indianapolis Star-USA TODAY NETW

Caitlin Clark had her introductory press conference with the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday, giving media members the first opportunity to talk with the new face of the franchise after she was selected with the No.1 pick on Monday evening.

Things took a rather unexpected and uncomfortable turn, however, when one reporter posed a bizarre question to Clark.

After receiving some criticism on social media after video of the exchange went viral, the reporter, Gregg Doyel of IndyStar, issued an apology for his actions.

"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," wrote Doyel on X.

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

During the initial exchange, Doyel asked Clark about the heart-shaped hand gesture she makes to her family after games.

When Clark asked if he liked the gesture, Doyel responded saying, "I like that you're here."

Clark then explained the significance of the hand gesture, to which Doyel said, "Start doing it to me and we'll get along just fine."

Reporter: 🫶

Caitlin Clark: "You like that?"

Reporter: "I like that you're here."

Caitlin: "Yeah, I do that at my family after every game.”

Reporter: "Start doing it to me and we'll get along just fine."

Caitlin: 😳

(via @IndianaFever / YT)pic.twitter.com/BBjU881K7a

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 17, 2024

The 22-year-old awkwardly smiled after Doyel made his remarks, seemingly not quite sure how to react, while Doyel transitioned into asking another question.

The uncomfortable moment resulted in an apology from the reporter, and fortunately, the rest of the introductory presser went on without a hitch.