Three Players Ejected in Fever-Sun Brawl Amid Officiating Criticism

The Indiana Fever's 88-71 victory over the Connecticut Sun in the Commissioner’s Cup semifinal was overshadowed by multiple on-court altercations that resulted in three player ejections. Tensions escalated throughout the game, particularly between Fever star Caitlin Clark and Sun guards Jacy Sheldon and Marina Mabrey, culminating in a brawl late in the fourth quarter after Sophie Cunningham fouled Sheldon. Fever coach Stephanie White harshly criticized the officiating, accusing referees of losing control and allowing physical play to spiral out of hand, a sentiment echoed by NBA TV commentator Debbie Antonelli and fans who felt earlier fouls were inadequately punished. Despite Mabrey knocking Clark to the floor, she was only given a technical foul, which fueled frustration over inconsistent officiating. The officials’ handling of the game, including delayed ejections and inconsistent penalties, was widely blamed for the late-game violence and ongoing tensions. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about officiating standards in the WNBA as players become faster and more physical.