The WNBA upgraded Chicago Sky guard Chennedy Carter’s foul against Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark to a flagrant-1 violation after reviewing the play that took place last Saturday.
Incident details
Carter delivered a hard shoulder shot to Clark, knocking her to the floor before an inbound pass during the third quarter of Saturday’s 71-70 loss to the Indiana Fever. Initially, Carter’s foul was ruled a common foul and wasn’t reviewed during the game.
I wasn’t expecting it. It is what it is. It’s a physical game. Go make the free throw and execute on offense,
said Clark after the game. And I feel like that’s kind of what we did.
Carter’s reaction
Carter refrained from commenting on Clark or the incident post-game, preferring to focus on broader issues:
I’m a competitor, and I’m going to compete no matter who you are, and no matter who’s in front of me… Heat of the moment play. We’re getting at it. We’re getting back and forth. It’s basketball. It’s all hoops. After we finish the game, it’s all love.
Carter also responded to critics:
I’m seeing a lot of things — players, fans not understanding who I am as a player. You have to understand me as a person, too. And don’t just look at one tape and form an opinion about me. I’m truly passionate about the game…
Chicago coach’s response
Chicago coach Teresa Weatherspoon stated:
Physical play, intensity and a competitive spirit are hallmarks of Chicago Sky basketball. Chennedy got caught up in the heat of the moment in an effort to win the game,
Weatherspoon said in a statement. She and I have discussed what happened and that it was not appropriate, nor is it what we do or who we are…
The WNBA decision
The league announced its decision on Sunday to upgrade Carter’s foul to a flagrant-1 after video review.
Media repercussion
Additionally, Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese was fined $1,000 for missing post-game press duties, with Chicago incurring a $5,000 fine for not ensuring compliance with league media policies.
Praise for Clark
Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides praised Clark for her resilience:
She showed it last night. Got up and kept playing… All she did was ask the officials to review it…I applaud her for how she handled it last night.
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