Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides has faced her share of criticism this season, with her team battling through a challenging record. However, the Fever’s impressive 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm on Sunday showcased the resilience and determination of Sides’ squad, with rookie sensation Caitlin Clark leading the charge. Clark finished the game with 23 points, nine assists, and five rebounds, pushing the Fever closer to a WNBA playoff spot despite their 13-15 record.
Following the game, Sides addressed a controversial moment during the Fever’s post-game press conference—a technical foul assessed to Clark after she punched the basketball stanchion at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a moment of frustration. Sides was candid in her remarks, expressing confusion and frustration over the call, particularly since Clark had not been penalized in previous instances for similar actions.
“I wanted our coaches to review exactly what happened,” Sides stated. “I didn’t see what she did that warranted a technical foul. She was frustrated and hit the pad on the rim, which she’s done several times before without being called for it. I don’t think she’s ever been teed up for that.”
Caitlin Clark received a technical foul in today’s Indiana Fever vs Seattle Storm game!#WNBA pic.twitter.com/jkM0sNjoBd
— Women’s Basketball Tweets (@WBBTweets) August 18, 2024
Sides made it clear that she has no issue with how Clark expressed her emotions, emphasizing that it was a harmless act that didn’t impact anyone else. “If that’s how she chooses to release her frustration, I’m perfectly fine with it,” Sides continued. “It wasn’t directed at anyone, and it didn’t disrupt the game. What we need is consistency in making that call, especially since it hadn’t been a technical foul for her in the past.”
Sides’ defense of Clark underscores her belief in her star player’s passion and commitment, and she made it clear that the Fever won’t let a questionable technical foul overshadow their drive toward the playoffs.
