May 22, 2026 | Indianapolis, IN — In a moment that has stunned fans and shaken the WNBA community, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has been handed a three-game suspension following a heated on-court altercation during Wednesday night’s matchup against the Chicago Sky.
The incident occurred late in the third quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where tensions had been mounting throughout the game between the two rival teams. Clark, who had already racked up 22 points and 7 assists, appeared visibly frustrated after a series of hard fouls went uncalled. After driving to the basket and taking a hard hit from Sky forward Angel Reese, Clark fell to the ground and immediately sprang up, confronting Reese face-to-face.
Words were exchanged, and things escalated quickly as Clark shoved Reese, leading to both benches clearing. Security and coaching staff intervened to de-escalate the situation. The game was paused for nearly 10 minutes as referees reviewed the footage.
Following the review, Clark was assessed a flagrant 2 foul and ejected from the game. Reese received a technical foul for her role in the escalation but was allowed to remain on the court.
The WNBA released a statement the next morning:
“Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever has been suspended for three games without pay for escalating an on-court altercation, engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct, and violating the league’s code of player conduct.”
Clark, a leading MVP candidate and one of the most high-profile players in the league, has not been involved in any prior suspensions or major altercations in her career. The incident has divided fans and analysts alike.
Speaking after the game, Fever head coach Christie Sides commented:
“Caitlin plays with passion and fire — that’s part of what makes her great. But we can’t let emotions get the best of us. We support her, and we’ll use this as a learning moment.”
Clark later issued a brief apology via social media:
“I let the heat of the moment get to me. I respect the game, my opponents, and the fans too much to act like that. I’m sorry — I’ll be better.”
Despite the apology, the incident has ignited fierce debate online about the physicality in the WNBA and the league’s treatment of star players. Some argue Clark is unfairly targeted on the court, while others believe she should be held to the same standards as anyone else.
The Fever will now be without their star guard for their next three games, a significant blow as they continue their push toward a playoff spot.
