Clark endures multiple fouls from Sky players, prompting calls for league intervention

Physical play or pre-meditated attack? Chicago Sky’s approach to Caitlin Clark under freCBS Screengrab / MARCA

The Indiana Fever’s hard-fought victory over the Chicago Sky, 91-83 was anything but quiet. Caitlin Clark, a standout for the Fever, found herself repeatedly targeted by the aggressive tactics of the Sky, particularly by Angel Reese and Dana Evans.

Barstool president Dave Portnoy did not hold back his outrage. He posted a video of Evans being called for a foul after hooking arms with Clark. “Chicago Sky doing Chicago Sky stuff,” Portnoy tweeted, adding a scathing comment, “One of these Fever girls, would you go up and knock these idiots out please?” His frustration reached a peak when he exclaimed, “Someone punch her in the face. Break her nose,” with the camera focused on Evans.

The tension escalated later in the game when Reese struck Clark across the head while attempting to block a shot. The foul was upgraded to a flagrant one, giving the Fever two free throws and possession. Portnoy, never one to mince words, posted another video, calling the Sky the “dirtiest players in the game.”

Clark shines amidst aggressive tactics in Fever-Sky rematch

This match marked the first encounter between the Fever and the Sky since their intense showdown two weeks ago, where Chennedy Carter’s hip-check on Clark drew significant attention. Despite the physical onslaught, Clark delivered an impressive performance, scoring 23 points, along with nine assists and eight rebounds, shooting 7-for-11 from the field and nailing three 3-pointers.

Notably, Aaliyah Boston supported with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks. On the Sky’s side, Reese managed a double-double with 11 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists, while Carter added 18 points. Marina Mabrey led the Sky with 22 points, maintaining her status as the team’s top scorer this season.

As the dust settles, the question remains: was this aggressive approach by the Sky part of a coordinated strategy against Clark? With mounting scrutiny, the Fever and their supporters hope that the league will address these tactics to ensure a fairer and safer competition in future matchups.