Ahead of the WNBA All-Star Game in Chicago, former U.S. President Barack Obama meets with three-time All-Star Caitlin Clark and delivers encouragement to focus on basketball amid recent league controversies. According to reports from Yahoo Sports and CBS Sports, Obama speaks with Clark on Friday morning while the players are in Chicago for the All-Star weekend. In the message described by both outlets, Obama urges Clark not to let “nonsense” bring her down and to block out distractions. CBS Sports frames the remarks in the context of Clark’s comments on recent WNBA issues, noting that Clark and other All-Stars discuss the broader atmosphere around the league during the time they are in town. Yahoo Sports similarly reports that Obama’s remarks are intended as support and motivation as Clark approaches the All-Star festivities. Both sources agree the meeting takes place on Friday and that Obama’s message is aimed at helping Clark stay focused despite off-court debate.