In a charged atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday, the Indiana Fever secured their spot in the Commissioner’s Cup championship with an assertive 88–71 victory over the Connecticut Sun. Caitlin Clark led the charge with 20 points, six assists, and four 3-pointers, while the game boiled over with physicality and critical ejections late in the fourth quarter.
⚔️ Physical Intensity Takes Center Stage
The night started with sharp play and fierce tension. In the third quarter, Sun guard Jacy Sheldon poked Clark in the eye, igniting a heated exchange that included a hard foul from Marina Mabrey, who knocked Clark to the floor. The scuffle prompted multiple technical fouls, including a flagrant call on Sheldon.
With 46 seconds left, a hard foul by Sophie Cunningham sparked another melee, resulting in three ejections — Cunningham, Sheldon, and Lindsay Allen — as tempers flared in a fiercely contested finish.
🌟 Clark’s Performance Powers the Fever
Despite the drama, Indiana remained in command, dominating both ends of the floor. Clark, returning from a quad injury, stepped up in a major way:
- 20 points, including four long-range triples
- 6 assists, orchestrating the offense with poise
- 12 first-half points, helping the Fever build and maintain a double-digit lead
Indiana’s bench also delivered, with Kelsey Mitchell adding 17 points and Natasha Howard posting a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double.
📈 What This Win Means
1. Commissioner’s Cup Final Berth Secured
The win boosted Indiana’s Cup record to 4–1, clinching their spot and setting up a championship showdown against the Minnesota Lynx on July 1.
2. A Return to Winning Form
This is the Fever’s first time back above .500 this season (6–5), marking a turning point guided by Clark’s recent return.
3. Physical Edge and Team Resolve
Coach Stephanie White emphasized the squad’s toughness, with Cunningham playing a key protective role. Clark credited the physicality as proof of the team’s growing confidence
🚀 Takeaways & What’s Next
- Clark Re-Emerges Strong: Her 3rd 3-pointer early in the fourth restored momentum and quieted any doubts.
- Cunningham’s Enforcer Role: Known for her toughness and black belt in Taekwondo, she stepped in decisively when it counted.
- Coach White’s Message: She called out officiating but applauded her team’s composure amid chaos.
Up next: The Commissioner’s Cup Final on July 1, where Indiana will challenge Minnesota for the in-season trophy.