Caitlin Clark Faces Increased Physical Defending In WNBA, Coach Highlights Concerns

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Caitlin Clark's recent injury woes have sparked concerns from Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White, who believes Clark isn't receiving the same level of protection as other WNBA players. Clark has already missed nine games this season due to injuries, including a left quadriceps issue and a left groin injury. On Tuesday, she left the court in tears during an 85-77 victory over the Connecticut Sun, clutching her right groin.

White expressed her thoughts on the physicality Clark faces, saying, "There's a level of physicality that they're able to play with against her. I knew it as an opponent, and I see it as her coach. I'm not exactly sure why, but it just is what it is, and we've got to help her learn to adjust and use it against them in certain ways." She emphasized the need to make things easier for Clark amid the league's increasing physical demands.

The Fever have shown mixed results this season, holding an 8-5 record when Clark plays but struggling at 4-5 without her. As they prepare for a back-to-back game against the New York Liberty on Wednesday, White remains cautious about Clark's status. "I think we just take it one step at a time," White stated regarding Clark's condition. "We'll get some food and get on the plane and start talking about New York."

Tuesday's game drew a sellout crowd of 19,156 fans at Boston's TD Garden. The Suns played there last August as well. Notable attendees included Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown. Indiana teammate Sophie Cunningham expressed enthusiasm for Boston hosting a WNBA team: "I thought it was a lot of fun, to be honest," Cunningham said. "There's so much history in this building."

Clark had an off night against Connecticut, scoring 14 points on 4-of-14 shooting. Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana with 20 points while Natasha Howard contributed 18 points. Despite these challenges, White remains optimistic about managing without Clark if necessary: "This group has played without her; at least we've got experience in that."

The Fever are navigating through a challenging season marked by inconsistency due to injuries. As they continue their campaign, they aim to adapt and find ways to support their star player while maintaining competitiveness in the league.

As evaluations continue for Caitlin Clark's condition, Indiana Fever remains hopeful for her swift recovery while preparing for upcoming challenges on their schedule.