Chippiness and tensions ran high during a WNBA game between the Indiana Fever and the Washington Mystics, particularly between Fever rookie Caitlin Clark and Mystics guard Julie Vanloo. The incident occurred midway through the second quarter when the Mystics were leading 33-23. Clark shoved Vanloo while trying to get open for a pass from Fever veteran Erica Wheeler. Vanloo responded by questioning Clark’s actions, gesturing with her arms.
A replay video showed that Clark and Vanloo exchanged words, while Wheeler and Fever All-Star Aliyah Boston engaged in a verbal exchange with Washington center Stefanie Dolson. Amidst the commotion, a referee attempted to intervene, and Clark even made a flopping gesture at Vanloo.
The tension between Clark and Vanloo seemed to stem from a previous play in which Clark knocked down a three-pointer in Vanloo’s face early in the game. Clark pushed off Vanloo before draining a step-back three-pointer near the right corner, giving the Fever a 5-0 lead with eight minutes remaining in the first quarter. From that point on, the two guards engaged in a heated battle on both ends of the court.
During one instance, Clark was called for an offensive foul when she pushed off Mystics guard Ariel Atkins, who fell into a screen set by Boston. Clark expressed her frustration, telling Atkins, “Don’t fall for that. You fell for it. She’s so soft.”
Despite Clark’s impressive performance of 29 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists, it was not enough to secure a win for the Fever. The Mystics ultimately defeated the Fever 89-84 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Vanloo contributed 13 points, two assists, and two rebounds to her team’s victory.
This game came after Clark made history in the WNBA by recording a triple-double in a previous game against the Liberty. She became the first rookie in league history to achieve this feat. Clark’s exceptional performance earned her a spot on the 2024 WNBA All-Star team, alongside Sky rookie Angel Reese. They were the only rookies to receive All-Star nods.
Looking ahead, the Fever, with a current record of 9-14, will face the Mercury in Indiana on Friday. Despite the loss and the tensions on the court, Caitlin Clark continues to make waves as an outstanding rookie in the WNBA. Fans can expect more exciting performances from her in the future.
