A fresh controversy has erupted in the WNBA after new video evidence surfaced, revealing Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark enduring multiple uncalled fouls—some described by fans as outright assaults—during a recent game. The newly released footage, shot from an alternative angle, has sparked instant panic among the officiating crew and ignited heated debate across the basketball world regarding player safety, league integrity, and fair play.
The Incident
The play at the center of the controversy occurred in the second half of the Indiana Fever’s matchup against the Chicago Sky. As Clark attempted to drive past defender Tahena Pow, the new camera angle clearly shows Pow grabbing Clark’s hip, clutching her jersey with both hands, and physically impeding her progress. Despite the blatant contact, referees allowed play to continue—no whistle was blown, and Clark’s efforts were stymied by what many now view as a clear defensive foul.
Slow-motion replays only magnified the issue. The footage shows Clark’s arm being seized as she tries to free herself, with Pow’s grip preventing her from moving forward. Some critics initially questioned whether Clark had committed an offensive foul by extending her arm, but the video evidence demonstrates that any extension was a direct response to being held, not an attempt to push off. The defensive violation was obvious, and the lack of a call has been described as one of the most egregious officiating oversights in recent memory.