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[Saba Sports News] A Texas man has been arrested for allegedly stalking Caitlin Clark, a rising star in the WNBA, and sending her disturbing messages.
Court documents obtained by Matt Christy of FOX 59 reveal that 55-year-old Michael Thomas Lewis of Denton, Texas, was charged with one count of stalking, threatening sexual battery, or death—a Level 5 felony—after he was arrested on Sunday in Indianapolis, where Clark plays for the Indiana Fever.
Authorities allege that Lewis sent Clark alarming messages on social media between Dec. 16 and Jan. 2, some of which were sexually violent. In his messages, Lewis claimed he was planning to attend one of Clark’s games, saying he was “getting tickets” and would “sit behind the bench.” In another message, Lewis reportedly admitted to driving by Clark’s house multiple times daily.
“Been driving around your house 3x a day,” Lewis wrote, as noted in court filings. “But don’t call the law just yet, the public is allowed to drive by Gainbridge…aka Caitlin’s Fieldhouse.”
The FBI became involved when Lewis’ recent messages were traced to Indianapolis, heightening concerns. Clark reportedly told authorities she felt fearful and had begun altering her appearance in public to avoid being recognized.
Prosecutors stated that Lewis’ threats were intended to place Clark in “reasonable fear of sexual battery.”
FBI agents conducted a welfare check on Lewis at a downtown Indianapolis hotel, where he claimed he was on vacation and referred to his messages as a “joke.” He described himself as being in an “imaginary relationship” with Clark. Despite being warned by police to cease contact, Lewis allegedly continued sending messages, leading to his arrest.
Clark, who was a standout in her first WNBA season, averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. She led the league in assists, earned All-Star honors, and was named WNBA Rookie of the Year, despite facing criticism from some peers and others in the league.
The incident underscores the challenges public figures face, even as they achieve success in their careers.