In a surprising turn of events, Kennedy Carter has finally addressed the incident involving Caitlin Clark that took place last June. This controversial altercation, where Carter delivered a notorious shoulder check to Clark, has been a defining moment in her career, casting a shadow over her professional prospects in the WNBA.

The incident occurred during a regular season game between the Chicago Sky and the Indiana Fever. What should have been a routine matchup turned into a spectacle when Carter veered off course and deliberately collided with Clark, sending her sprawling to the floor. The action was initially ruled a common foul but was quickly upgraded to a flagrant foul upon review, highlighting its severity.

Carter’s justification for her actions has sparked widespread debate. In a recent interview, she described the incident as “just basketball” and downplayed it as a mere “little tap.” However, video evidence paints a different picture, showing a deliberate act of aggression rather than incidental contact. This discrepancy has fueled criticism and skepticism from fans and analysts alike.

The WNBA, currently experiencing a surge in popularity and growth, has been particularly protective of its rising stars like Caitlin Clark. Carter’s actions and subsequent explanations have not aligned with the league’s emphasis on professionalism and sportsmanship. As a result, she remains unsigned, with training camps for the 2025 season about to commence.

Carter’s history of on-court issues further complicates her situation. In 2021, while playing for the Atlanta Dream, she was suspended indefinitely for conduct detrimental to the team. This pattern of behavior has raised questions about her professionalism and ability to function within a team environment, making teams wary of signing her despite her undeniable talent.

The timing of Carter’s recent statements also raises eyebrows. With the WNBA training camps just around the corner and her future in the league uncertain, her decision to break her silence now appears more like a strategic move to rehabilitate her image rather than a genuine attempt to take responsibility.

Caitlin Clark, on the other hand, has handled the situation with grace and professionalism. Despite being blindsided during the game, she chose to focus on her performance and let her actions speak for themselves, further endearing her to fans and solidifying her status as a role model in the league.

As the WNBA continues to grow, the league is sending a clear message: actions that threaten its image and the safety of its players will not be tolerated. Carter’s case serves as a cautionary tale of how quickly a promising career can unravel when personal vendettas overshadow professionalism.