JUST IN: A Texas man has been charged with stalking for allegedly sending WNBA star Caitlin Clark threats over social media, officials said Monday.

Texas Man Charged with Stalking WNBA Star Caitlin Clark Over Social Media Threats

A Texas man has been charged with stalking after allegedly sending threatening and sexually explicit messages to WNBA star Caitlin Clark, officials announced Monday. The man, identified as Michael Lewis, 55, was arrested in Indianapolis following a months-long investigation into his disturbing online behavior toward the Indiana Fever player.

According to court documents, Lewis used social media platforms to send “numerous threats,” including sexually violent messages, to Clark. Authorities traced the messages to an account linked to him and revealed that Lewis had driven from Texas to Indianapolis, allegedly with intentions of confronting the basketball star in person.

The FBI and local law enforcement coordinated to apprehend Lewis, who was reportedly staying in a hotel near Clark’s team’s training facility. The investigation confirmed that Lewis had a history of sending alarming messages to prominent athletes, though this incident marks the first time his actions escalated to physical proximity.

Clark, who rose to fame as a record-breaking college basketball star before transitioning to the WNBA, has not publicly commented on the incident. Her team, the Indiana Fever, released a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement and affirming their commitment to player safety.

“Threats of this nature are taken very seriously,” said the team’s spokesperson. “We will continue to ensure Caitlin and all our players feel safe and supported on and off the court.”

Lewis faces felony stalking charges, which could lead to significant prison time if convicted. Prosecutors emphasized the importance of safeguarding public figures from harassment, particularly as social media interactions increasingly lead to real-world consequences.

This case underscores the growing concern over the safety of athletes and public figures who face harassment in the digital age. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to report any similar behaviors they witness online.