He Indiana fever A tough matchup was expected in their first game back after the WNBA returned this week following an extended break for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
And that is exactly what they got when they stepped onto the court to face the Phoenix Mercury Friday night.
Caitlin Clark, #22 of the Indiana Fever, reacts in the second half against the Phoenix Mercury at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 16, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
“We knew they were coming in here with a lot of confidence, with three people who have won gold medals,” Caitlin Clark said after the Fever's 98-89 home win.
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“You know their confidence is really high and I think we came out and really set the tone.”
On par with the level of confidence was the physical level on the court.
Two fights broke out during the game, including a shove that broke out in the third quarter between Indiana's Kelsey Mitchell and the Mercury's Natasha Cloud.
Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever shoots over Natasha Cloud, #0 of the Phoenix Mercury, during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 16, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
CAITLIN CLARK SHINES IN FIRST GAME AFTER PROLONGED OLYMPIC BREAK
Mitchell appeared to fall at the three-point line after contact with Cloud, and immediately turned around to push her opponent. The two briefly engaged in a punch-out before they were separated by players and coaches, resulting in a double technical foul.
“Obviously you have to be a little tougher and get dirty,” Mitchell told reporters of the game's physical intensity. “I had a moment with T. Cloud and I tip my hat to her for being a competitor, but I think she helped us a little bit. Grit, playmaking and those third quarters and when teams make runs is how you win a game in this game.” the WNBA. You have to be brave.”
Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever and Natasha Cloud of the Phoenix Mercury fight during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 16, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
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Cloud also spoke about the post-match incident.
“I have nothing but love for her… that's the competitiveness of the game.”
Another minor fight also broke out between Brittney Griner and Aliyah Boston, but no technical fouls were called.
The Fever will play next Sunday against the Seattle Storm.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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