On Tuesday, Michael Thomas Lewis, a 55-year-old Texas man, appeared in an Indiana courtroom to face accusations of stalking women’s basketball star Caitlin Clark.

Rising Star Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark, 22, became a household name after an extraordinary rookie season in the WNBA. The Indiana Fever guard, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, earned All-Star and All-WNBA honors and was named the league’s Rookie of the Year. Clark’s rise has also brought her numerous endorsements and accolades, making her one of the most prominent figures in women’s basketball.

Allegations Against Lewis

Lewis allegedly sent threatening and sexually violent messages to Clark on the social media platform X. According to court records, Indiana authorities tracked him down using his IP address and arrested him at an Indianapolis hotel on Sunday. He faces a Level 5 felony stalking charge.

During his first court appearance, Lewis repeatedly disrupted the proceedings, proclaiming his guilt by shouting, "I'm guilty as charged" and insisting he wanted to stay in jail. Marion County Superior Court Judge Angela Davis entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

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Conditions and Restrictions

When asked by the judge if he suffered from a mental illness, Lewis said he needed medication and gave the same response when asked if he required an attorney. The court appointed defense attorney Gavin Uitvlugt to represent him, but Uitvlugt declined to comment.

Lewis, says he lives in his car, identified as a 2016 Toyota Avalon. He also claims to only have $100. 

Despite insisting, "I don't want bond, bail, whatever," he signed court orders agreeing to avoid Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, venues connected to Clark and her boyfriend, Butler assistant coach Connor McCaffery. He is being held on a $50,000 bond.