Angel McCoughtry considers defamation lawsuit over Caitlin Clark remarks
The former WNBA All-Star denied calling the Indiana Fever player ugly and suggested legal action over claims that her words were twisted.
Former WNBA star Angel McCoughtry is considering legal action following backlash regarding comments she made about Caitlin Clark, according to the Times of India. McCoughtry, a five-time WNBA All-Star, has denied allegations that she insulted the Indiana Fever player during a podcast appearance last Thursday.
The controversy arose on the podcast Get to the Point when McCoughtry was asked if she thought Clark was pretty. McCoughtry laughed at the question and redirected the topic to Clark's teammate, Sophie Cunningham. Some fans interpreted this as a slight against Clark, but McCoughtry rejected those claims.
Writing on Threads on Sunday, McCoughtry questioned if the false claims against her could constitute defamation. She stated that she never called anyone ugly and that those words were never spoken by her.
McCoughtry had originally argued that looks can affect how much attention and commercial interest players receive in women's basketball. She noted that while players in the NBA or NFL are judged on skill, appearance plays a role in the WNBA.
The former Atlanta Dream forward also reported receiving death threats for discussing Clark. She stated that the WNBA needs to provide better protection for former players who discuss league issues.
McCoughtry also raised concerns regarding financial security for retired athletes. She questioned if the $100,000 offered to players who complete 10 seasons is sufficient to cover long-term medical costs and injuries.