Caitlin Clark Leaps to Defend Teammate During Fever’s Win Over Aces

The Indiana Fever secured an impressive 80–70 victory over the Las Vegas Aces on Thursday, boosting their season record to 13–12. Though the team pulled off the win, star rookie Caitlin Clark was absent from the court, sidelined for the third straight game due to a groin injury she recently re-aggravated.

While there’s no official update on when Clark will return to action, her presence was still strongly felt on the bench. Even in street clothes, Clark remained emotionally locked into the game, reacting passionately to nearly every whistle blown by officials.

Throughout the night, Clark barely made use of her seat. Instead, she was often on her feet — clapping, gesturing, and voicing her opinion on the officiating. One moment in particular stood out: after teammate Sophie Cunningham was hit with a foul call that the entire Fever bench disagreed with, Clark instantly shot up from her seat and walked onto the court in protest. Her animated reaction captured just how emotionally invested she still is, despite being unable to play.

The foul discrepancy was notable. Although the Aces were called for five more fouls than the Fever, Indiana attempted three fewer free throws. That imbalance didn’t go unnoticed by Fever head coach Stephanie White either. In fact, she grew so frustrated with a call that she earned a technical foul for voicing her disapproval—perhaps channeling some of Clark’s fiery competitive spirit in the process.

As for who will pay White’s fine? That remains to be seen, but given Clark’s track record of supporting her teammates, fans wouldn’t be shocked if she volunteered.

Whether she’s lighting up the scoreboard or defending her teammates from the bench, Caitlin Clark continues to prove she’s a passionate and influential leader for the Fever.