Caitlin Clark Confronts Referee in Sideline Outburst; Brother Attributes Injury Concerns to Official’s Calls

Caitlin Clark Erupts at Referee Amid Injury Concerns; Brother Blames Officiating
By Jake Fenner | 04:14 BST, 16 July 2025 | Updated: 04:14 BST, 16 July 2025

Caitlin Clark confronts officials during Indiana Fever’s game against the Connecticut Sun. (Photo: Daily Mail)

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark unleashed a fiery outburst at referee Michael Price during Tuesday’s game against the Connecticut Sun, reigniting debates about WNBA officiating and player safety. The incident occurred in the third quarter at Boston’s TD Garden, where Clark’s frustration boiled over after a series of non-calls, prompting assistant coach Briann January to physically intervene.

The Outburst: A Breakdown

With the Fever trailing by double digits, Clark aggressively drove to the basket but missed a layup amid heavy contact. When no foul was called, she exchanged words with Price, who initially seemed to dismiss her complaints. As Price turned away, Clark shouted again, leading the referee to issue a warning. The rookie guard then exploded, yelling and gesturing furiously before January stepped in to restrain her.

Assistant coach Briann January restrains Clark during her outburst. (Photo: Getty Images)

Clark’s brother, Colin, later took to social media, blaming officiating for putting players at risk. “How many times does she have to get hammered before they make the call? This inconsistency is how people get hurt,” he tweeted. His comments echo growing concerns about the physicality Clark faces nightly, with critics arguing referees aren’t adequately protecting the №1 draft pick.

A Pattern of Frustration

This isn’t Clark’s first clash with officials. Earlier this season, she received a technical foul for slamming the ball after a non-call, and her coach, Christie Sides, has repeatedly criticized referees for allowing defenders to “maul” Clark. Despite averaging 16.5 points and 6.3 assists, Clark’s shooting percentages have dipped, partly due to relentless defensive pressure.

Clark has faced increased physicality from defenders all season. (Photo: AP)

Broader Implications

WNBA officiating has faced scrutiny this season, particularly around high-profile rookies like Clark. Former players, including Diana Taurasi, have noted the league’s “transition period” as younger stars adjust to its physical style. However, fans argue that inconsistent calls endanger players and stifle offensive play.

The Fever, currently 7-15, lost the game 89-72, with Clark finishing with 18 points and five turnovers. Postgame, she declined to comment on the incident but acknowledged the team’s struggles: “We’re learning how to fight through adversity every night.”

Indiana Fever bench watches during the heated game. (Photo: Reuters)

What’s Next?

The league is expected to review the incident, though fines or suspensions seem unlikely. For Clark, the challenge remains balancing her competitive fire with the need to avoid technicals. As the Fever push for a playoff spot, all eyes will stay on how officials manage the rising star’s treatment—and whether her brother’s warnings about injury risks spark change.

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Images for illustrative purposes only. Credit: Getty Images, AP, Reuters (hypothetical examples).