Christie Sides loses patience, passionately defends Caitlin Clark, slams referees: “She’s taking a beating out there!”

Christie Sides gets fed up and accuses referees of failing to protect Caitlin Clark: She's getting beat up

Indiana Fever head coach Christie Sides has voiced her mounting frustration with WNBA officiating, particularly concerning the treatment of rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, during the early part of the 2024 season. During Thursday night’s game against the Seattle Storm, Sides received a technical foul after a heated reaction to what she perceived as a blatant foul on Clark.

Post-game, Sides passionately defended Clark and criticized the officiating, emphasizing her concerns about fair treatment for her players.

“The entire 40 minutes is on the court – on both ends – she’s getting roughed up,” Sides stated emphatically.

“She keeps fighting. I just feel like we deserve the same calls that they’re getting on the other end. We’re just not getting that fair treatment. I’m going to fight like hell for them,” Sides asserted with determination.

Clark agrees with Sides

Despite Clark’s strong performance, with 20 points, nine assists, and three rebounds, the Fever were defeated 103-88, leaving them with a 1-8 record for the season.

“I think at times there are ways I can probably channel it a little better, but that’s just basketball at the end of the day,” Clark noted.

“I think at times there are ways I can probably channel it a little better, but that’s just basketball at the end of the day,” Clark noted. “That’s never going to change. I’m never going to lose that. I feel like I’m getting hammered.”