In her ‘Courtside Club’ podcast, Rachel DeMita responded to Wilson’s remarks, pointing out the irony of the situation. Despite many teams playing against the Fever throughout the regular season and playoffs, concerns about Indiana’s fans only began to surface toward the end of the season.

DeMita commented, “I’m sorry. It’s just so funny because I feel like from all of the visuals that I’ve seen of fans in Indiana, it is mostly kids. You see so many photos and videos and especially like the people who are sitting closest to the court, a lot of the times  seem like children.“

In fact, one viral video of Caitlin Clark signing fans’ jerseys even stated how she gave preference to young girls and boys over others. Many of them have even shown lines of aspiring basketball players in young girls, trying to grab attention from the No. 22.

DeMita’s reaction was in response to Wilson’s recent candid interview with ESPN, where the reigning WNBA MVP expressed her unease about playing in Indiana, stating, “Ugh. I dreaded being in Indiana, not because it was like the city or nothing, it was just like, I just don’t want no s— to pop off.” Wilson’s remarks to ESPN also read, “It’s like that feeling of constantly having to have that guard up, constantly having to just protect yourself and being ready to take the high road. Living like that sucks.” 

via Imago

She ended her comments by saying, “This year we see it more than ever and it sucks and I hope it just dies down. We’re starting to lose the beauty of the game of basketball. That’s what I hate the most about it… These folks going crazy.”

Many see this comment as reckless and divisive, and it has sparked backlash, particularly from those who argue that Indiana Fever fans are among the most supportive in the league.

Critics of Wilson’s statement point out that Indiana Fever players themselves, such as Nalyssa Smith, have not voiced any concerns about their fans. Smith, in fact, has been seen interacting warmly with fans, signing autographs, and taking pictures with children after games, even when the rest of the team was frustrated by losses. This behavior contradicts Wilson’s portrayal of Indiana Fever fans as potentially dangerous.

Wilson’s critics further contend that her comments are particularly harmful because they target a fanbase known for its family-friendly environment. Fever games are characterized by enthusiastic, youthful fans, many of whom are children and teenagers. The suggestion that these fans could pose a threat to player safety has been labeled as not only exaggerated but also damaging to the WNBA’s efforts to grow the game by fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

Some commentators have drawn comparisons between Wilson’s comments and similar remarks by other WNBA stars like Brittney Griner and Breanna Stewart, who have also hinted at concerns about playing in certain arenas. However, the backlash has been strongest against Wilson.

Supporters of the Indiana Fever fanbase argue that the team and its fans represent the pinnacle of what sports should be about: bringing together people from all walks of life. The Fever roster reflects this diversity, with players like Caitlin Clark, Aaliyah Boston, and Erica Wheeler hailing from different backgrounds and countries. The fanbase mirrors this diversity, comprising families of various races and ethnicities who share a common love for basketball.

Indiana Fever fans have long been regarded as some of the most loyal in the WNBA. Erica Wheeler and Kelsey Mitchell praising them for their unwavering support. Even rising stars like Caitlin Clark have spoken highly of the Fever fanbase, further calling into question the accuracy of Wilson’s portrayal.

The timing of Wilson’s comments has also raised eyebrows, as the 2024 WNBA All-Star game is set to take place in Indiana. Some speculate that Wilson’s remarks could be part of a broader push to move the All-Star game away from Indiana, possibly due to concerns over the rising popularity of players like Caitlin Clark, who is poised to become a major star in the league.

As the WNBA continues to grow, the recent controversy surrounding A’ja Wilson has exposed deeper issues of competition and division within the league. Critics argue that her comments have not only upset fans but also threaten the league’s unity at a time when expanding its audience is KEY. Meanwhile, Wilson’s supporters believe players should feel free to raise safety concerns, even if not everyone agrees.