Tensions Flare as Fever Beat Sun, Clark Shoved and Multiple Ejections Occur

The Indiana Fever secured a victory over the Connecticut Sun in a game marred by physicality and escalating tensions, ultimately resulting in multiple ejections and a flagrant foul. Caitlin Clark was at the center of several incidents, adding fuel to an already fiery contest at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Early friction between Clark and the Sun defense bubbled throughout the game. A pivotal moment occurred late in the third quarter when Sun guard Jacy Sheldon made contact with Clark's face while guarding her. Following the foul call, Clark retaliated with a shove, prompting Sun forward Marina Mabrey to push Clark to the ground. A brief melee ensued before officials intervened.

The referees reviewed the sequence and assessed a flagrant foul on Sheldon for the initial contact, while Clark and Connecticut center Tina Charles received double technical fouls. Mabrey was only given a technical foul for pushing Clark, a decision that drew boos from the home crowd and confusion from commentators, who anticipated an ejection. Clark subsequently sank all three free throws awarded as a result of the fouls.

The verbal sparring continued when Clark later drained a three-pointer and directed comments toward Sheldon and the Sun bench.

The intensity reached a boiling point in the game's final minute. Sheldon intercepted a pass and drove towards the basket, where Fever guard Sophie Cunningham committed a hard foul. Cunningham's actions sparked another confrontation, with Sheldon and her teammate Lindsay Allen immediately challenging Cunningham. All three players were ejected following a review.

Ultimately, the Fever managed to maintain composure and secure an 88-71 victory despite the numerous disruptions and heightened emotions.