Context:

In Christine Brennan's new book, a WNBA official expressed concerns that many players lack understanding of real media exposure, a sentiment shared following an incident between players DiJonai Carrington and Caitlin Clark. The official's comment came after Brennan's questioning of Carrington, which reportedly led to an accusation of disrespect by DeWanna Bonner, Carrington's teammate. Brennan's inquiries, including whether Carrington had mocked Clark, were deemed appropriate by the official, as long as they remained respectful. The official's assertion highlights a perceived gap in players' media preparedness, noting their college experience often shields them from challenging questions. Despite these revelations, neither the WNBA nor the Women's National Basketball Players Association has responded to requests for comment on the official's statement.

Dive Deeper:

• Christine Brennan's book, 'On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women's Sports,' highlights a WNBA official's belief that players are unprepared for real media exposure, as they have been shielded during college.

• The book details an incident involving DiJonai Carrington poking Caitlin Clark during a game, leading to social media speculation about the act's intent and a subsequent confrontation with journalist Brennan.

• Brennan's questioning of Carrington, whom she asked about the incident and potential mockery, resulted in DeWanna Bonner accusing Brennan of attacking Carrington, which Brennan denies.

• A WNBA official reassured Brennan that her questions were acceptable as long as they remained respectful and non-vulgar, but expressed frustration over players' lack of media savvy.

• The official's comments, made anonymously, underscore a broader issue of players' unpreparedness for the media landscape in the WNBA, a concern not publicly addressed by the league or its players' association.

• Brennan reported that Carrington also criticized media discussions about her partner, NaLyssa Smith, during a subsequent encounter, suggesting continued tension between players and the press.

• Neither the WNBA nor the WNBPA have provided any official response to the claims made in Brennan's book regarding the players' media exposure issues.