In letter, lawmakers seek 'accountability' from WNBA on Clark - ESPN

A group of 11 Republican lawmakers, led by U.S. Rep. August Pfluger of Texas, sent a letter to WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Wednesday demanding the league take «accountability» for «multiple attacks» against Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark.

In the letter, Clark is described as «the face of your league» and someone who has generated fan interest, increased television ratings and new corporate sponsors. It suggests that the third-year guard is on the receiving end of «unnecessary physical hostility and violence,» such as hip-checking, eye-poking and recently, being struck in the throat.

The lawmakers said they're concerned by reports that «attacks against Clark may be racially motivated.»

«As Commissioner, you have an obligation to ensure that every player competes in a safe and professional environment, both on and off the court, free from violence, discrimination, or retaliation,» the letter said. «If discrimination or retaliation is occurring and creating a hostile work environment, we support any appropriate investigation by the Department of Justice, the Department of Labor, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. If true, such conduct could constitute violations of federal civil rights laws.»

The group of lawmakers requested that Engelbert and the WNBA reply to its letter no later than July 24 with answers to three questions about the league's review process for «physical hostility and violence on the court,» how the league holds players accountable for «overly aggressive acts on the court,» and what steps the league is taking to protect players from online harassment.

In a statement after their shootaround in Los Angeles on Wednesday, the Fever said they were unaware of the letter.

«Our organization