Caitlin Clark has not demanded a trade out of the Indiana Fever. The two-time All-Star remains committed to the organisation despite rumors about her being at odds with coach Stephanie White.
On Wednesday, a YouTube channel named “WNBA Talks” uploaded two videos claiming that Clark had requested a trade from the Fever. The videos featured the reactions of different streamers to Stephanie White’s post-game interviews in between AI-generated content. The channel had no legitimate source to back its claim.
Caitlin Clark is back in her groove following a six-month-long hiatus because of a groin injury she suffered last season. She is averaging 24.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 9.0 assists per game on 42.5% shooting.
However, the Fever has been cautious with her. She played in four games with a career low minutes average of 30.8 minutes per game. Clark was ruled out for the Fever’s 90-73 win over the Portland Fire on Wednesday with a back injury.
Indiana made the change at the last moment before tip-off. Stephanie White’s pregame statements about Clark’s injury and her opinions on it postgame have raised a lot of eyebrows.
Stephanie White makes confusing comments on Caitlin Clark’s injury
During the pregame press conference before the Fever’s win over the Fire, Stephanie White told reporters that Caitlin Clark was out with a back injury.
“(Clark) just woke up with some stiffness and soreness,” she said. “For us, it’s not the time to take a chance. We just really want to be cautious.”
Later, a reporter asked White if Clark’s absence was part of a strategic management plan. White’s answer contradicted her previous statement.
“No, absolutely not,” White said. “She’s healthy, we’re not managing anything. This is just a back issue that we want to make sure we give the time to be ready.”
Generally, the term “healthy” means that a player is fit to compete in a game. However, White seems to have a vague definition of the word. When reporters asked the Fever coach if Clark was hurt, she told them to interview the training staff. The media is not allowed to interview any member of the training staff.
The Fever managed to do fine without Clark. Aliyah Boston scored 24 points, recorded eight rebounds and dished out three assists to secure the win. Kelsey Mitchell backed the Fever center as the second option on the night. She finished with 21 pts, two reb and four ast.
Edited by Avi Shravan