INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In a bold and candid interview, Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White didn’t hold back as she responded to comments made by former NFL quarterback Cam Newton. The exchange, which took place on a national sports talk show, quickly went viral after White fiercely defended her team, Caitlin Clark, and the growing stature of women’s basketball.

In a conversation that quickly escalated, Newton made some controversial remarks regarding the perceived attention women’s sports, particularly the WNBA, receive compared to their male counterparts. He suggested that women’s basketball, including stars like Caitlin Clark, didn’t warrant the level of exposure they were getting.

White, known for her no-nonsense attitude and sharp basketball acumen, wasted no time in putting Newton in his place, delivering a powerful defense of both the Indiana Fever and the game’s brightest stars.

White Stands Tall in the Face of Criticism

When asked about Newton’s comments on the show, White didn’t shy away from the chance to set the record straight. “Let me make one thing clear,” White began. “Caitlin Clark is one of the most exciting talents in basketball—men’s or women’s. What she has accomplished, and the way she plays the game, is something that transcends gender. To diminish her efforts, or the efforts of any women’s basketball player, is simply disrespectful to the game.”

Newton had suggested that the media was overhyping players like Clark and that women’s sports in general didn’t draw the same level of attention as their male counterparts. He implied that there were more “worthy” athletes in men’s sports who didn’t get as much recognition.

White fired back, stating that athletes like Clark are setting new standards, and the increasing media attention is not just earned, but necessary. “It’s time for people to realize that women’s basketball is here to stay. Athletes like Caitlin Clark, Sabrina Ionescu, and A’ja Wilson are changing the game. They’re inspiring the next generation of athletes, and their stories need to be heard,” White added firmly.

Defending Caitlin Clark’s Impact on the Game

One of the most pointed parts of White’s response was her passionate defense of Caitlin Clark and her impact on the sport. Clark, who has taken the NCAA by storm with her incredible shooting range and playmaking ability, has quickly become one of the most marketable and popular faces in sports, and White believes her rise is indicative of the direction women’s basketball is heading.

“Caitlin Clark is not just a basketball player—she’s an ambassador for the game. She is showing young girls everywhere that they can be anything they want to be. To suggest that the attention on her is undeserved is not only wrong, but it’s also damaging to the future of women’s sports,” White explained. “Clark brings a level of excitement and energy to the court that you can’t ignore, and if you’re not watching her, you’re missing out on something special.”

White also emphasized the work that Clark has put in to reach her level of success, highlighting her unmatched work ethic and leadership on and off the court. “Caitlin Clark earned every bit of that attention, and it’s not just about her scoring points. It’s about her leadership, her ability to inspire, and the way she plays the game. This is a player who can change the trajectory of women’s basketball. If you don’t see that, you’re simply not paying attention,” White added.

Defending the Indiana Fever and Women’s Basketball as a Whole

In addition to defending Clark, White also used the opportunity to stand up for her team, the Indiana Fever, and the entire WNBA. While Newton’s comments were aimed at the overall media coverage of women’s sports, White made sure to point out that the Fever are a young and talented team with a bright future ahead.

“We’re building something here in Indiana. We’ve got a lot of young talent, and it’s a team that’s hungry to prove itself. I’m proud of what we’re doing, and we’re only getting started,” White said. “The WNBA is filled with incredible athletes, and the exposure the league is getting now is long overdue. It’s not a coincidence. It’s the result of years of hard work by athletes, coaches, and the fans who have supported women’s basketball through thick and thin.”

White further pointed out the strides the Fever have made in recent years, with a focus on player development and creating a culture of excellence. “We’re focused on building a winning team here, but more importantly, we’re focused on making sure that every player knows they belong. The same way you see young men rising to the top of their respective sports, you’re going to see women doing the same thing in basketball, football, and beyond.”

Cam Newton: A Learning Moment

After White’s pointed response, many viewers were left wondering whether Newton would walk back his comments. While Newton has faced backlash for his remarks, this situation could serve as a moment of growth for the former NFL MVP.

White made it clear that while she disagreed with Newton’s perspective, she was open to having a dialogue about the importance of women’s sports. “It’s unfortunate that comments like that still happen, but it’s also a chance to educate people. I’m happy to have conversations and bring attention to the amazing athletes in women’s sports. If Cam Newton wants to learn more about Caitlin Clark and the WNBA, I’m happy to sit down and talk about it,” White said with a confident smile.

Looking to the Future

As the WNBA season progresses, all eyes will be on how both the Fever and Clark continue to grow their legacies. White’s leadership and fierce defense of the game’s stars only further solidify her status as one of the most powerful voices in women’s basketball. And with athletes like Caitlin Clark leading the charge, the sport is primed to continue breaking down barriers, one game at a time.

“This is just the beginning,” White concluded. “We’re not here to be overlooked. Women’s sports have earned their place at the table, and we’re going to make sure the world sees that.”