Caitlin Clark Reflects on Loss Against Las Vegas

On Thursday night, Caitlin Clark faced the press with a somber demeanor, reviewing the game stats. Her eight turnovers and missed free throws in the final seconds were fresh in her mind, and she took responsibility for the Indiana Fever’s 86-84 overtime defeat to the reigning champions, Las Vegas.

“Obviously, it can’t happen,” Clark, a three-time All-Star, commented shortly after her selection to the FIBA Women’s World Cup team. “Those free throws are ones I usually make. Missing them was definitely frustrating. One successful shot could have given us a two-possession lead, but my misses cost us, so that’s my fault.”

Clark’s performance was not up to her standards. Although she scored 20 points and had eight assists, along with two key 3-pointers in the closing moments of regulation, her errors overshadowed her efforts. She watched a 20-point first-half lead evaporate, and then failed to protect narrow leads late in the game.

Jackie Young capitalized on a lapse with a personal franchise-best run, scoring 15 straight points across the second and third quarters. Chelsea Gray then exploited late-game mistakes, hitting a critical 3-pointer to send the game into overtime at 75, following Clark’s missed throws. Gray later nailed another buzzer-beater for the win following Clark’s final mishap overpowered by A’ja Wilson.

Clark shot 7 for 20 in total and struggled with 3-pointers, making only 2 of 10. She also recorded more fouls than rebounds. However, she made no excuses.

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“I didn’t realize we scored only nine points in the third quarter, but we kept fighting. We hadn’t given up and were in a position to win,” Clark added. “I was the one who made critical errors. It’s on me to ensure we win games. That’s why I’m here.”

Kelsey Mitchell, who recently earned WNBA Player of the Month honors for July, also faltered in key moments. She missed one of two free throws with under ten seconds on the clock. Instead of preventing a potential tying shot, the Fever allowed Gray an opportunity to square the score.

Coach Stephanie White pointed out, “Aliyah Boston read the situation perfectly, the timing was spot on.” However, the 18 points lost due to turnovers cost them dearly. White admitted she could have better managed the last moments by calling a timeout, which might have altered the outcome, allowing Clark’s play to develop effectively.

White, while understanding Clark’s disappointment, maintained a hopeful perspective.

“Players regret their missed attempts. They dislike it when they underperform,” White noted. “It’s crucial to maintain a positive mindset even during setbacks.”

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