Caitlin Clark's former teammate Temi Fagbenle makes feelings clear on Fever star's 'white privilege' comments

Caitlin Clark and Temi Fagbenle are going their separate ways after the latter was acquired by the Golden State Valkyries in the expansion draft. Though they'll no longer be teammates in the near future, Fagbenle weighed on a trending Clark quote about "white privilege."

On Sunday, Fagbenle posted this on X, formerly Twitter:

"Let me make this clear. CC can speak about having white privilege without hating herself. CC can acknowledge THE REALITY of race disparities without pandering to any group. CC can celebrate the GIANTS who have come before her, without diminishing her own HISTORIC accomplishments."

Notably, this is Fagbenle's first Tweet since the middle of March. Fagbenle's musings come at a time when her former Indiana teammate Clark is facing backlash after her comments.

To celebrate Clark as its 2024 Athlete of the Year, TIME magazine published a profile covering her ascent to global prominence. The profile includes this particular quote from Clark:

"I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege. A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them."

Clark went on to add what she aspires to do with her WNBA platform.

"The more we can appreciate that, highlight that, talk about that, and then continue to have brands and companies invest in those players that have made this league incredible, I think it’s very important. I have to continue to try to change that. The more we can elevate Black women, that’s going to be a beautiful thing."

These words from Clark drew a strong reaction from some fans and analysts, who slammed the reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year for supposedly pandering and lacking authenticity.

Temi Fagbenle joins the wave of support for Clark amidst the backlash

Fagbenle doubled down on her support for Clark's freedom of expression by expanding her thoughts after her initial Tweet.

The one-time WNBA champion went on to call the Clark situation "a great opportunity 4 some respectful conversations about race in the US," while also acknowledging, "Ain't no quick fix."

Aside from Fagbenle, many other sports personalities have come to Clark's defense. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith acknowledged the vital role that Clark has played in elevating the WNBA's business prospects via TV ratings and live attendance.

"Caitlin Clark hasn't spoken against anybody, she hasn't assisted in denying anybody else the privileges they deserve," the ESPN analyst said. "If anything, she's trying to provide assistance; she's trying to be the rising tides that lift the boats."

Clark has also received support from ESPN reporter Elle Duncan, former tennis star Chris Evert, and sports commentator Dave Portnoy.