Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Stalking WNBA Star Caitlin Clark
A disturbing case involving the stalking and harassment of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark reached a resolution this week, as a 55-year-old Texas man was sentenced to 2 ½ years in prison after pleading guilty to charges related to a months-long campaign of threats and inappropriate behavior.
The Case and Arrest
Michael Lewis of Denton, Texas, pleaded guilty to one felony count of stalking and one misdemeanor count of harassment in a deal reached with Marion County prosecutors. His arrest stemmed from a series of incidents between December 12, 2024, and January 11, 2025, during which he reportedly sent hundreds of threats and sexually explicit messages to Clark.
According to court documents, the FBI traced the IP addresses of Lewis’ messages to locations in downtown Indianapolis, including a hotel and the public library. Following this, local authorities conducted a welfare check, during which Lewis told police he believed he was in “an imaginary relationship” with the WNBA star. He claimed to be visiting Indianapolis on vacation.
Despite the police contact, the threatening messages continued, prompting law enforcement to take further action.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Lewis appeared in court on Monday, where he was formally sentenced to two and a half years behind bars. He will also receive credit for time already served and has been ordered to receive mental health treatment, as recommended by the court.
During the proceedings, Lewis reportedly made unsettling comments, including a bizarre prophecy that the end of the world was imminent. The judge acknowledged the disturbing nature of the case and the emotional toll it likely took on Clark and her team.
Terms of the Sentence
In addition to the prison time, Lewis faces strict restrictions going forward:
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He is barred from entering Gainbridge Fieldhouse (home of the Indiana Fever and Pacers) and Hinkle Fieldhouse.
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He is prohibited from attending any Fever or Pacers events.
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He must have no contact of any kind with Caitlin Clark.
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He will be denied internet access for the duration of his sentence.
These conditions aim to ensure the safety and peace of mind of Clark as she continues her career and public life.
Clark’s Season and Response
Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has faced challenges during her rookie season, including multiple injuries that have limited her to just 13 games so far. She is currently recovering from a right groin strain, with no definitive timetable for her return.
Though Clark has not publicly commented on the stalking case, her team and fans have rallied around her throughout the ordeal. The Fever organization has reportedly enhanced security measures to protect players, especially high-profile figures like Clark, whose popularity has surged since her college days at Iowa.
A Broader Issue
This unsettling case serves as yet another reminder of the serious threats public figures—particularly women athletes—can face in the spotlight. As women’s sports continue to grow in visibility and commercial success, so too does the need for strong legal and organizational protections for athletes off the court.
Final Thoughts
Michael Lewis’ conviction and sentencing may bring a sense of closure to a deeply troubling situation, but it also highlights the growing urgency of ensuring safety for athletes in the digital age. For Caitlin Clark, her focus can now return to rehab, recovery, and eventually, a return to the court—where she belongs, doing what she does best.