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[Saba Sports News] Caitlin Clark was visibly frustrated after the Indiana Fever’s narrow loss to the New York Liberty on Saturday — and she made sure the referee knew it.
The Fever dropped a heartbreaker at home, losing 90-88 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With 2.9 seconds remaining, Indiana had a chance to tie or win the game.
Clark took the inbounds pass and was immediately pressured by Liberty guard Natasha Cloud. As Clark tried to make a move, she lost control of the ball under intense defensive pressure and time expired.
Clearly expecting a whistle, Clark was furious when no foul was called. Cameras caught the star rookie confronting the referee with an expletive-laced five-word outburst, “Are you f–king kidding me?”
Video of the play quickly circulated online, sparking debate over whether a foul should have been called — especially since the Fever were in the bonus, which would have sent Clark to the line for two potential game-tying free throws.
Statistically, Clark had a solid night with 18 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds, but she struggled with efficiency, shooting 6-of-19 from the field and just 2-of-12 from three. Cloud, who tallied a well-rounded 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, five steals, and three blocks, was a relentless defender on Clark throughout the night — setting the stage for a dramatic and contentious finish.
The Fever’s loss drops them to 2-2 on the season, while Clark continues to adjust to the physicality and intensity of WNBA competition, with opponents clearly looking to challenge the rookie phenom at every turn.