Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink addressed the topic of alleged white privilege in the WNBA, asserting that some of her younger white colleagues “inherently” possess privilege.
Brink’s comments come amid claims that the Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark’s popularity is due, in part, to her race rather than her skill. In a recent interview, Brink expressed her desire for fans to support “all types of players.”
“I acknowledge there’s a privilege for younger white players in the league,” Brink stated. “It’s not always the case, but there’s an inherent privilege, including the privilege of appearing feminine. Some teammates of mine present more masculine and some use they/them pronouns. I want to push for greater acceptance and not have our support be based on appearance.”
Brink concluded her thoughts by emphasizing her wish for universal acceptance, beyond mere appearance.
As the No. 2 pick in this year’s WNBA draft, behind Clark, Brink noted a narrative that WNBA rookies must be “perfect,” highlighting that Clark bears the brunt of this expectation.
Among those suggesting that Clark’s popularity is partly due to “white privilege” is Sunny Hostin, a co-host of The View, who also claimed that “people have a problem” with WNBA players who are lesbian.
ESPN host Pat McAfee discussed this issue on his Monday show, countering the idea that Clark benefits from privilege. He argued that her popularity is a result of her on-court talent, while commending the Indiana Fever for having “somebody special” in Clark.
Last month, TNT’s Charles Barkley commented that some women show “petty” animosity toward Clark and suggested they should appreciate the attention she has brought to the WNBA.
