The backlash over Alyssa Thomas’ fist-to-the-throat foul on Caitlin Clark has taken a troubling turn. As Thomas and her Phoenix Mercury teammates face online threats and abuse, many fans are questioning why Clark has remained silent. But those familiar with her know she has spoken out against harassment before, and an old clip is now making the rounds again.

“Nobody in our league should be facing any sort of racism, hurtful, disrespectful, hateful comments and threats,” Clark said in the video, shared by James Boyd on X. “Those aren’t fans. Those are trolls. And it’s a real disservice to the people in our league, the organization, the WNBA.”

Clark made that address during the Indiana Fever’s postseason exit interviews following her rookie season. Reporters specifically asked her about the escalating online harassment and toxic social media discourse directed at players across the league. She did not hedge and did not deflect. She firmly condemned the behaviour and drew a clear distinction between genuine supporters and those who use controversy as a vehicle for hate.

It is the exact same line that coach Stephanie White drew when she addressed the Thomas situation this week. For White, as for Clark, the individuals who capitalize on controversial moments to unleash hate and threats are not fans of the team, the league, or the game.

That silence, however, cannot be mistaken for indifference or agreement with what has been happening. Judging by the strength and clarity of her past statements on exactly this kind of toxic online behaviour, her position is already well established. The resurfaced clip is not a relic from a different version of Clark, it is a window into exactly who she is and what she stands for.

Part of the reason for her public absence since the incident is simply circumstantial. Clark left the game in which the foul occurred with a back injury. And as a result, she missed the Fever’s very next game. She is currently on course to also miss the upcoming game against the Aces. This means she has not been present for any press conference or media availability in which she could have been asked about it directly.

Head coach Stephanie White has confirmed that Clark is working with the club’s medical and development staff as she manages her recovery. And hopefully, in due course, she will be back on a basketball court.