Caitlin Clark stayed on the bench during Tuesday night’s game between the Dallas Wings and the Indiana Fever. Yet even without playing, the rookie sensation still made headlines after a heated exchange with a referee. The Fever endured another tough loss at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, falling 81-80 in a nail-biter that left players and coaches visibly frustrated.
The Indiana star’s absence continues to weigh heavily on the team. Clark’s groin injury has kept her from competing, and her recovery timeline remains uncertain. For a franchise fighting to stay competitive, every game without her presence on the court feels like a significant setback.
Tense confrontation on the court
According to Bolavip, tensions spiked late in the game when a referee gestured toward the Fever bench. Clark stepped onto the court, walked directly to official Amy Bonner, and made her case in an animated manner.
The incident followed a controversial call against Aliyah Boston, who was whistled for one of her three fouls. Video replays showed that Li Yueru, the Wings’ center, had grabbed Boston’s arm, causing it to tangle as the Fever star attempted a shot. The decision drew groans from the crowd and sparked the on-court protest.
— Claire: Caitlin Clark Style (@caitlinclarksty) August 13, 2025
Head coach Stephanie White didn’t hold back in the post-game press conference. “If it’s going to be physical and you’re going to allow us to be physical, then allow both teams to be physical. If you’re going to call holds and you’re going to call chucks, then call it both ways,” she stated firmly.
White has had several run-ins with officiating this WNBA season, often voicing her concerns about inconsistency. “I think we’ve been pretty consistent in what we’re asking for, and I didn’t feel it was consistent tonight,” she added.
With Clark’s return date still uncertain, the Fever will need to regroup quickly. The team’s playoff hopes hinge on finding ways to win — and keeping emotions in check — even without their most dynamic player on the floor.
