Reporter's 'awkward' interaction with WNBA's Caitlin Clark goes viral, Internet dubs it 'an embarrassment'

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK: Basketball sensation Caitlin Clark found herself in an uncomfortable situation during a press conference on Wednesday when reporter Gregg Doyel made a cringeworthy comment that quickly went viral on social media.

The incident occurred as Clark, a rookie for the Indiana Fever, fielded questions after being drafted onto the team, as reported by Radar Online.

WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark faces awkward exchange with reporter

Doyel, an IndyStar reporter, raised eyebrows when he took the microphone and mimicked Clark's signature heart gesture, prompting Clark to ask, "You like that?"

"I like that you're here," Doyel responded, leading to an awkward exchange that left many viewers feeling uneasy.

"I do that at my family after every game," Clark told Doyel.

"Well, start doing it to me and we'll get along just fine," the reporter responded.

Reactions on social media were swift and critical, with users describing Doyel's behavior as weird and cringe. Some even called for his credentials to be revoked over the exchange, underscoring the backlash generated by his comments.

One user wrote, "i like that your heeeeeeere” . weirdo" while another user wrote, "Caitlin can even handle the creeps without skipping a beat."

Another user tweeted, "@GreggDoyelStar is such an embarrassment to, literally, the entire state of Indiana." 

One user questioned, "was that the first time he talked to a woman?"

Following the backlash, the columnist apologized and wrote he was "devastated to realize I’m part of the problem."

“Today in my uniquely oafish way, while welcoming Caitlin Clark to Indy, I formed my hands into her signature [heart],” Doyel wrote and added, “My comment afterward was clumsy and awkward. I sincerely apologize. Please know my heart (literally and figuratively) was well-intentioned. I will do better.”

This awkward exchange comes amid Clark's transition to the WNBA after a successful college basketball career at the University of Iowa, where she set numerous records and earned accolades such as the 'Big Ten Player of the Year' for the 2023-24 season.

The Caitlin Clark effect: A record-breaking journey to the WNBA

Caitlin Clark's journey to the WNBA has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by record-breaking performances and a meteoric rise to basketball stardom.

The 22-year-old athlete, hailing from De Moines, Iowa, made waves during her college basketball career at the University of Iowa, where she dazzled fans and scouts alike with her exceptional talent on the court. Clark's accomplishments include scoring 400 points in 14 career games during the NCAA Tournament and earning prestigious accolades such as the "Big Ten Player of the Year."

Her decision to turn pro was met with anticipation and excitement, especially among Indiana Fever fans, who eagerly awaited her arrival after she was selected as the No.1 overall pick in the WNBA draft.

Reflecting on her draft day experience, Clark described the moment as "super special," emphasizing the importance of sharing it with her family and supporters who had believed in her throughout her journey.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.