In an unusual incident on Sunday, Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star, intervened to prevent a ricocheted ball from hitting her opponent, Kahleah Copper, in the back of the head. However, Copper misinterpreted Clark’s gesture and assumed the worst, thinking the rookie was making a hostile move.
The Phoenix Mercury star then aggressively approached Clark, but was quickly intercepted by teammate Diana Taurasi and others. After the misunderstanding was clarified, Copper apologized to Clark during a free throw, and the two were later seen joking about the incident.
Copper’s immediate reaction aligns with how Clark has been treated during her early professional career. In two previous matchups against the Chicago Sky, Clark found herself at the center of controversy, notably with longtime rival Angel Reese.
On June 1, Clark was body-checked by Chennedy Carter in a move that fans deemed unsportsmanlike. Carter later refused to discuss the incident but criticized Clark’s overall game on social media, questioning her contributions beyond three-point shooting.
On June 16, Reese committed a flagrant foul on Clark, striking her in the head and sending her to the ground. Reese further fueled the tension by criticizing Clark and her team in the press, alleging they received favorable treatment from referees.
Even before Clark was drafted No. 1 overall by the Fever, she faced skepticism. Diana Taurasi commented on the challenges Clark would face transitioning to the WNBA, emphasizing the difference in competition levels. Taurasi noted that while Clark’s talent would translate, there would be an adjustment period.
Taurasi later defended her remarks and criticized Clark’s fans for being overly sensitive. She reiterated that Clark would face a learning curve but expressed confidence in her eventual success in the league.
With Taurasi now coming to Clark’s defense against Copper, it’s evident that Clark’s presence in the WNBA is undeniable. Her impact is being felt both on and off the court, drawing significant attention to the league.