The Indiana Fever took an ugly 100-84 loss to the Portland Fire on Saturday, but the most viral moment from the game took place on the bench.
During a timeout, Fever head coach Stephanie White appeared to get into a heated argument with star guard Caitlin Clark.
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The discussion appeared to be about Clark’s defensive performance, with the two of them arguing before White told Clark to leave her seat in favor of rookie Raven Johnson, who was subbed into the game.
While the video quickly went viral on social media, White wasn’t specifically asked about the interaction by reporters. But after the game, she said Clark was subbed out earlier than usual due to foul trouble.
“I mean, it’s tough when you have your primary ball handlers in foul trouble,” she said. “It affects your ability, number one, for them to be on the floor, and number two, I thought Portland did a really good job of attacking the matchups they wanted.”
In 22 minutes of action, Clark finished the night with just six points and six assists on 1-of-7 shooting from the floor.
She’s not struggling alone, as the Fever haven’t had the smoothest start to the season. They are now 4-4 and are in the midst of a whirlwind of rumors and controversies.
As of publication, there is no indication that White’s job is in danger, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be down the line if the Fever don’t figure it out.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
