TRAGIC LOSS: Caitlin Clark and Family Mourn the Death of 9-Year-Old Cousin Janie Betts in Texas Flood Disaster
Heartbreak has struck the family of WNBA star Caitlin Clark, as they mourn the devastating loss of her 9-year-old cousin, Janie Betts, who tragically died during the catastrophic floods that swept through parts of Texas over the weekend.
Janie had been attending a summer camp near Austin when flash floods engulfed the area, forcing urgent evacuations and rescue efforts. Despite heroic attempts by camp staff and emergency responders, the rising waters claimed the lives of several children — including Janie.
The Clark family has not issued an official statement, but sources close to them say Caitlin is “devastated beyond words”, and has flown home to be with loved ones.
“She was just the sweetest soul,” one family member shared anonymously. “Janie loved basketball. She adored Caitlin. They were incredibly close.”
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The tragedy comes at a time when Clark has been under intense public and professional pressure in the WNBA spotlight. But in this moment, sport takes a backseat to sorrow.
Fans, fellow athletes, and public figures have flooded social media with condolences and prayers for the Clark and Betts families. WNBA teams paused for a moment of silence before weekend games, and tributes to Janie have begun appearing courtside — her favorite number, #3, marked in hearts and ribbons.
As the nation grieves the larger toll of the Texas floods, Caitlin’s personal loss puts a human face on the tragedy — a reminder that behind every headline is a family forever changed.
