The Indiana Fever’s 91-83 triumph over the Chicago Sky was anything but peaceful. Caitlin Clark, a standout player for the Fever, found herself the focal point of the Sky’s relentless aggression, notably from Angel Reese and Dana Evans.
Dave Portnoy, the outspoken president of Barstool, was quick to voice his displeasure. Sharing a video where Evans fouled Clark by hooking her arm, Portnoy tweeted, “Chicago Sky being the Chicago Sky,” and furiously added, “Can one of these Fever players knock some sense into them?” His anger peaked as he demanded, “Someone punch her in the face. Break her nose,” with the video zeroing in on Evans.
The tension reached a boiling point when Reese smacked Clark on the head during a shot block attempt. This incident was deemed a flagrant one, earning the Fever two free throws and possession of the ball. Portnoy, never one to shy away from controversy, shared another video, labeling the Sky as the “dirtiest players in the league.”
Clark Thrives Despite Aggressive Defense in Fever-Sky Clash
This game was the first rematch since their heated encounter two weeks prior, which saw Chennedy Carter’s controversial hip-check on Clark. Despite the physical play, Clark delivered a stellar performance, racking up 23 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, shooting 7-for-11 from the field and hitting three 3-pointers.
Aaliyah Boston also shone with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks. On the Sky’s end, Reese achieved a double-double with 11 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists, while Carter contributed 18 points. Marina Mabrey led the Sky’s scoring with 22 points, maintaining her position as the team’s leading scorer this season.
As the tension fades, the pressing question remains: was the Sky’s aggressive play a calculated move against Clark? With increasing scrutiny, the Fever and their supporters hope that the league will address these tactics to ensure a fairer and safer environment in future games.