Shane Gillis Slammed for Controversial Caitlin Clark Joke at ESPYs

Comedian Shane Gillis stirred major backlash at the 2025 ESPY Awards after making a racially charged joke targeting WNBA star Caitlin Clark. During his opening monologue, Gillis said, “When Caitlin Clark retires from the WNBA, she’s going to work at a Waffle House so she can continue doing what she loves most: fist-fighting Black women.”

The comment, referencing Clark’s on-court clashes with players like Angel Reese, Chennedy Carter, and DiJonai Carrington, sparked audible discomfort among the Dolby Theatre audience and ignited controversy online. Many fans and commentators called the joke offensive, inflammatory, and tone-deaf.

Clark, who has been at the center of several heated moments in her rookie season, was not present to respond publicly.

Adding to the tension, Clark is also currently sidelined with a groin injury. The Indiana Fever guard was ruled out of the team’s upcoming game against the New York Liberty after injuring herself late in a win over the Connecticut Sun.

The combination of Gillis’s harsh jab and Clark’s vulnerable moment has reignited debates about media portrayal, athlete safety, and the boundaries of comedy in sports.