Star rookie nears technical foul limit amid Indiana’s struggles.

Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s standout rookie, is on the brink of a potential suspension by the WNBA due to a series of technical fouls accrued early in the season. Clark received her third technical foul in just nine games following a heated exchange with Seattle Storm guard Victoria Vivians in Indiana on Thursday night.

Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark at risk of suspension

Why the WNBA could suspend a player

Under WNBA regulations, a player is suspended for one game upon receiving their seventh technical foul of the season, with additional suspensions for every subsequent technical. With three technical fouls already on her record, Clark must navigate the remaining 31 games of the regular season with no more than three additional technicals to avoid suspension.

The Indiana Fever have struggled this season, holding a 1-8 record, and Clark’s mounting frustrations have been evident. Opposing teams have targeted her with physical play, exacerbating her difficulties on the court. Despite finding her shooting form, Clark’s temper has flared under the relentless pressure.

Thursday’s incident occurred when Clark confronted Vivians, resulting in double technical fouls for both players. Following the altercation, Fever head coach Christie Sides also received a technical foul after Clark appeared to be fouled near the basket without a call from the officials.

“I feel like I’m getting hammered, I don’t know,” Clark remarked to reporters post-game. “I appreciate Christie getting a tech too. I don’t know.“

Clark’s confrontations with referees add to mounting frustrations

Clark’s previous technical fouls have also stemmed from disputes with referees. In a recent game against the Connecticut Sun, she was penalized for exclaiming, “It’s a f-king foul” after a play went uncalled.

Coach Sides has addressed the team’s conduct with officials, emphasizing the need to focus on the game. “We’re spending too much time talking to the officials. We’ve got to leave that alone. We’ve got to just play our game and let them do their job and not put it in their hands,” Sides stated earlier this week. “We shouldn’t get technicals. Let me get the technicals.”

As the Fever seek to turn their season around, Clark’s ability to control her emotions and avoid further technical fouls will be crucial. Her performance and presence on the court are vital for the team’s success, making it imperative for her to maintain composure under pressure.