Stephanie White criticized WNBA officials for what she called inconsistent calling during a game involving Caitlyn Clark.
At the conclusion of Saturday’s match, Clark attempted to drive the ball after receiving an inbound catch but was stopped by Natasha Cloud, leading to a narrow 90-88 defeat for the Fever.
The atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse changed dramatically as the final buzzer marked the loss.
White expressed her frustration afterward. “I thought she was fouled,” she said. “It’s disheartening that in our recent games we have a -31 free throw disparity. If we were just shooting threes, maybe that would be different. But we’re not.”
Clark, visibly confused and raising her arms, looked to the officials, seemingly questioning why she hadn’t been awarded a free throw opportunity that could have potentially won the game.
When asked about that last play, Clark admitted, “I don’t know,” adding she hadn’t yet reviewed the situation.
“The disrespect our team has faced lately is remarkable,” White remarked. “It’s unfortunate that it doesn’t seem to go both ways.”
Cloud noted that the Fever’s formation for the inbound pass signaled to her that Clark was trying something unexpected.
Clark ended the game with 18 points, shooting six for eight.
Cloud explained her defense, stating, “When she stood up, I applied a bit of pressure. As she initiated her shot, I was able to swipe it away. I sensed she wanted a three-pointer; of course, you aim to win at home.”
A controversial no-call on the Fever’s end was compounded by an incident at the other end of the court where Sabrina Ionescu, with the score tied at 88-88, drove in for a potentially questionable shot.
Using her strength, Ionescu managed to lean into defender Lexie Hull, creating an opening.
With just 2.9 seconds on the clock, Ionescu made both free throws.
It seems White is seeking clarity from WNBA officials regarding the calls—or lack thereof—that have impacted her team.
The Liberty converted 25 out of 32 free throw attempts, while the Fever went a perfect 11 for 11.
“There is a system in place for lodging complaints,” White mentioned. “But I’m not sure how effective it is. We’re not seeking radical changes; we desire consistency.”
