How the WNBA became a political prop in the culture wars

Sep 10, 2026 · Sam Fragoso

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

How the WNBA became a political prop in the culture wars

Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever, right, drives to the basket against Sydney Taylor of the Chicago Sky on Aug. 23.

Sports journalist Sabreena Merchant says culture war issues related to race and trans athletes threaten to overshadow exceptional play on the WNBA court.

(Image credit: Michael Reaves)