Caitlin Clark's 100-Minute Late Scratch Empties Fever Arena as Indiana Extends 6-1 Run
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 21
Caitlin Clark's 100-Minute Late Scratch Empties Fever Arena as Indiana Extends 6-1 Run
8 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 21
A viral in-game video showed large blocks of empty seats at Gainbridge Fieldhouse after Caitlin Clark was ruled out about 100 minutes before Indiana's game against Portland.
Stephanie White said she learned at 5 p.m. that Clark woke up with back stiffness and soreness, after the Fever had not listed her on the injury report earlier in the week.
The late change fueled speculation that fans skipped the game once Clark's absence became known, undercutting the usual sellout-level draw tied to the "Caitlin Clark effect."
Indiana still routed Portland and improved its early-season form to 6-1, but the episode added to scrutiny around the team's handling of Clark and the mood around White.
Is the Fever's handling of Clark's health a smart strategy or a sign of a more serious, chronic injury?
Does a half-empty arena reveal the fragility of the WNBA's growth, which heavily relies on the 'Caitlin Clark Effect'?