During Caitlin Clark’s introductory press conference on Wednesday, Indianapolis Star columnist Gregg Doyel found himself in another uncomfortable situation. Already facing criticism for a previous awkward interaction with Clark, where he formed a heart symbol with his hands, Doyel referred to her as “that” and “it” in a new video that surfaced during his conversation with Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides.

Addressing Sides, Doyel stated, “You were just given the keys to that,” in reference to Clark. He followed up with, “What are you going to do with it?” This choice of words struck many as odd, especially coming on the heels of Doyel’s prior interaction with Clark at a press conference.

In the previous incident, Doyel’s gesture of forming a heart symbol with his hands for Clark to open his questioning drew attention. When Clark asked if he liked it, Doyel responded, “I like that you’re here.” However, the situation took a turn for the worse when Clark explained that she made that gesture to her family after every game with the Iowa Hawkeyes. Doyel’s awkward reply, “Start doing it to me, and we’ll get along,” left Clark visibly uncomfortable before he proceeded to ask his question.

The reaction on social media was swift and critical. CBS Sports host Chris Williamson expressed understanding if the Fever were to revoke Doyel’s credentials, while Barstool Sports President Dave Portnoy labeled him a “pervert” and Ayssa Bergamini of 690 The Score called him a “creep.” ESPN’s Clinton Yates deemed the interaction inappropriate, unprofessional, and gross.

Columnist Lindsay Gibbs highlighted Doyel’s prestigious position at the IndyStar and his apparent lack of remorse following the incident. Doyel later apologized for his remarks in a column titled, “Caitlin Clark, I’m so sorry. On Wednesday I was part of the problem.” In his apology, Doyel admitted his actions were clumsy and awkward, expressing sincere regret and a commitment to doing better in the future.