Clark Draws Tech After Intense Third-Quarter Scuffle Against Sun
Tuesday night’s Commissioner’s Cup showdown between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun wasn’t short on drama, and once again, Caitlin Clark was in the center of it all.
What started as a chippy exchange between Clark and Jacy Sheldon early in the game escalated into a physical third-quarter clash. As Clark drove inside, Sheldon poked her in the eye while trying to steal the ball. In response, Clark gave her a shove that drew immediate reactions from both benches.
That’s when Marina Mabrey came charging in and shoved Clark to the floor, intensifying the moment and forcing officials to intervene.
Refs Step In With Multiple Fouls
After video review, the referees handed down penalties:
- Clark: Technical foul for shoving Sheldon
- Sheldon: Flagrant-1 foul for eye contact
- Mabrey & Tina Charles: Technical fouls for escalating the altercation
The incident marked Clark’s second technical in as many games, following one on Saturday against the New York Liberty for arguing with referees. The 2024 Rookie of the Year had previously gone four games without a tech this season.
Clark Must Walk the Line Moving Forward
Clark’s fiery competitive nature has always been part of her appeal, but this recent stretch of back-to-back technicals has drawn attention. While her reactions may be justified given the physical play she’s faced, keeping composure will be key as the Fever push through the season.
Still, the situation reignites the ongoing conversation about how referees are handling physical play against Caitlin Clark. And whether the league is doing enough to protect its most marketable star.
Read More: Caitlin Clark’s Frustrated Outburst at Teammate Echoes Pre-Draft “Toddler” Warning
