According to a company official, an Indianapolis sports columnist will not be covering the Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark, despite it being the biggest story in town. This decision comes after his uncomfortable encounter with the basketball icon.
Lark-Marie Anton, a spokesperson for the Indianapolis Star, stated that she is unable to comment on personnel matters or actions. However, she did confirm that Gregg Doyel will not be involved in any Fever coverage, following his uncomfortable interaction with Clark on April 17.
Anton announced in a statement that the Indiana Fever would not be covered by Indianapolis Star sports columnist Gregg Doyel.
Clark, the former Iowa superstar and all-time leading NCAA scorer, was selected as the top pick in the WNBA draft on April 15. Shortly after, the Fever organized an introductory news conference for Clark to meet with local journalists two days later.
During the meeting, things took an unexpected turn when Doyel, while addressing Clark, made a heart symbol. This gesture was a nod to the one Clark often makes for her family in the stands after games.
Clark responded, asking, “Do you like that?”
Doyel expressed his appreciation by saying, “I like that you’re here.”
“I do that with my family after every game, so it’s really cool,” she said.
“Sure, go ahead and do it to me and we’ll get along just fine,” Doyel responded with a hint of sarcasm.
Doyel later issued an apology for the awkward exchange, acknowledging the valid concern raised by fans that male athletes rarely encounter such overt and uncomfortable affection from reporters.
Doyel did not respond right away to telephone and text messages on Tuesday. However, in an email, he mentioned that he is feeling tired and will be taking some time off. He also added that he won’t be checking his email during this break. Doyel stated that he will return on May 13 and will be available to offer assistance at that time.
He published his final article on the Indianapolis Star website on April 29, and it was also featured in print on Wednesday.
