rewrite this content and keep HTML tags (remove this from content : rewrite this content and keep HTML tags)
The Indiana Fever opened their preseason against the Washington Mystics at home in Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Saturday’s showdown saw the Mystics jump out to an early 24-13 first‑quarter lead, before the Fever bounced back and edged out the victory in the second half.
Advertisement
However, this time it wasn’t a crazy buzzer-beater or record-setting stat line that dominated headlines, but rather WNBA star Caitlin Clark’s exchange with the refs.
With the Fever’s talisman absent due to a precautionary left‑leg issue, the spotlight shifted to Clark on the bench.
A video that quickly went viral on X showed Clark rising from the sideline and delivering a pointed message to the referee, lips moving, arms gesturing.
Clark is the NCAA’s all‑time leading scorer (3,951 points) and a catalyst for the WNBA’s recent surge in popularity.
Last season, she led the league in assists (8.4 apg), shattering three‑point and assist marks, and becoming the first rookie to record a triple‑double.
Advertisement
Her every move, on and off the court, is now fodder for headlines and endless debate.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.© Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Without Clark’s 19.2 ppg and playmaking, Indiana relied on a collective effort on Saturday.
Sophie Cunningham’s 21 points led the way in scoring, followed by Lexie Hull (13), Kelsey Mitchell (12), and Natasha Howard (11).
Indiana shot 96.4% from the free-throw line (27-of-28), and forced 25 Mystics turnovers, converting them into 17 points.
Now, the Fever return to Iowa City Sunday, Clark’s collegiate home turf, against Brazil’s national team, a game likely to draw national TV coverage and renewed focus on Clark’s every move.
Advertisement
Related: Former Iowa Star Gabbie Marshall Upset About New Caitlin Clark Announcement
Related: Hailey Van Lith Makes Big Chicago Sky Decision After WNBA Draft
