A man has been charged with stalking and harassing WNBA star Caitlin Clark after a series of disturbing and threatening messages. Michael Lewis, a 55-year-old from Denton, Texas, was arrested on January 13, 2025, at a hotel in Indianapolis where Clark plays for the Indiana Fever. The arrest followed allegations that Lewis had sent numerous messages to Clark, some of which were sexual in nature and left her fearing for her safety.
Clark, a rising star in the WNBA, had been the subject of disturbing messages from Lewis, including one where he claimed to have been driving around her house multiple times a day. Other messages contained threatening references to sexual violence. These communications caused Clark significant distress, prompting her to alter her public appearances to ensure her safety. According to court documents, Clark reported feeling terrorized, frightened, and intimidated by Lewis’s actions, and she expressed concerns about potential sexual battery.
The situation escalated when Indianapolis police intervened. They initially spoke to Lewis after being alerted to the threatening messages. During this conversation, Lewis admitted that he did not have any relationship with Clark, claiming his behavior was part of a “fantasy” and that it was not meant to be taken seriously. Despite the warning from the police, Lewis continued to contact Clark, which led to his arrest.
At his court hearing, Lewis behaved disruptively, making several interruptions during the proceedings. He initially declared himself “guilty as charged,” but then contradicted himself by claiming that he was not the person they were accusing. He also made statements about needing medication, which prompted the judge to instruct him to remain silent. Judge Angela Davis, who was presiding over the case, repeatedly told Lewis to stop talking, stating that he had the right to remain silent. Lewis did not hire an attorney, so a public defender was appointed to represent him, and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf.
Lewis is currently being held on a $50,000 bail, which he has expressed he will not pay. He also made it clear that he was not interested in being released on bond, stating, “I’m here. I’m staying.” As part of his conditions of release, Lewis has been ordered to refrain from contacting Clark and to stay away from locations associated with her, including Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where the Fever play, and Hinkle Fieldhouse, where Clark’s boyfriend is an assistant coach.
Prosecutors emphasized the severity of Lewis’s actions, pointing out that his conduct had caused Clark to feel deeply unsafe. Marion County prosecutor Ryan Mears praised Clark for her courage in coming forward, acknowledging that many women hesitate to report such incidents due to the fear of retaliation or further harassment. Mears stressed that Clark’s willingness to take action serves as an important example for other women, showing that they have the right to live and work without the threat of sexual violence.
Caitlin Clark, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has quickly become one of the most prominent figures in American sports. Known for her outstanding skills and her rivalry with Angel Reese, Clark has already made a significant impact in her rookie season, earning Rookie of the Year honors and breaking the league’s record for assists. Her success has also led to lucrative sponsorship deals, including a reported $28 million partnership with Nike. However, her rising fame has also made her a target for unwanted attention, as evidenced by this troubling incident.
