Caitlin Clark receives a tough lesson from coach Christie Sides .
Although Clark plays brilliantly, the coach of the Fever warns of the increasing number of fouls.
Even though the Indiana Fever are winning two consecutive games since the Olympics, head coach Christie Sides isn’t allowing her rookie sensation, Caitlin Clark, feel too comfortable. Sides is adamant that Clark, despite her performances that smash records, needs to watch her step—literally.
Clark, fresh off a much-deserved vacation, has been nothing short of sensational since her return to the court. The rookie extended her record with a tenth double-double against the Phoenix Mercury, racking up 29 points and 10 assists. She followed that up with 22 points and 9 assists in a dominating victory over the Seattle Storm, smashing the WNBA’s rookie assist record in the process.
But as the Fever continue their playoff push, Sides knows she needs Clark on the court, not sidelined by suspension. With 12 games left in the regular season, Clark’s two fouls away from a one-game suspension after picking up her fifth technical foul against the Storm. Sides isn’t taking that lightly.
With a determined tone, Sides stated, “We’re definitely going to have a conversation.” “This team needs Caitlin too much for her to miss a game. We will take this head-on. Putting fuel to the fire: Sides wants to capture Clark’s ferocious energy. Clark is unique because of her competitive fire, but Sides is aware that passion and recklessness can have a thin boundary. The coach isn’t going to let the rookie’s feelings hurt the team’s chances, even if she doesn’t want to lessen Clark’s zeal. “What makes Caitlin unique is her fierce competition spirit,” Sides said. However, a balance exists. We cannot afford for her to miss time due to preventable infractions.”
The technical that got Clark in trouble was questionable-a reaction after missing a three-pointer led to a technical foul for punching the padded back of the basket. Clark didn’t agree with the call, but instead of dwelling on it, she channeled her frustration into her play, helping the Fever to an even more commanding win.
After the game, Clark maintained her composure. “I thought we got better after that, so I guess I should thank the ref,” she joked. But behind the light-hearted comment lies the reality of Sides’ concern.
As the Fever march toward the postseason, Coach Christie Sides is walking a tightrope: keeping Caitlin Clark’s fire burning bright while ensuring it doesn’t scorch the team’s chances. The message is clear-Clark’s brilliance on the court comes with responsibility, and Sides is determined to help her navigate that balance.
