"It was disrespectful" - Caitlin Clark reveals her exchange with WNBA referee after receiving tech call

With 7:14 minutes to go in the third quarter, Caitlin Clark slapped the cushion cushion on the stanchion supporting a basket after missing a shot. The action drew a technical foul, which Clark was confused about as it wasn't directed at her teammates or the opposing team. Following the Indiana Fever's 92-75 victory against the Seattle Storm, she spoke about the incident.

Known as one of this year's best rookies, the Fever guard has shown her competitive nature on the court with how expressive she can get from tip-off until the final buzzer. It's common for professional athletes to be expressive, especially when tensions run high in games.

"I got a technical for basically being mad at myself," Clark said, "because I missed the 3, and then I went and hit the backboard and (the ref) told me it was disrespectful to the game of basketball ... reminded me of the technical I got in college where I said, 'Dammit,' where it's like a personal frustration."

Despite the call, that didn't slow down Caitlin Clark in putting up a quality performance against one of the league's best teams. She contributed 23 points (47.4% shooting, including 30.0% from beyond the arc), nine assists and five rebounds.

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Indiana Fever coach joked about talking with Caitlin Clark regarding her technical fouls this season

Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides was asked if she has any plans to talk with Caitlin Clark about her technical fouls this season.

"We're going to have a conversation," Sides said. "I don't need Caitlin to have to sit out a game. ... She's just a fiery competitor. I mean, I don't want to take that away from her."

In 27 games this season, Clarl has been assessed a technical foul five times already. Despite Sides joking about a planned conversation, she is aware of Caitlin Clark's importance to the team's success, especially at this point of the season.

Reaching a proper balance between maintaining Clark's competitive spirit and keeping her emotions in check during a basketball game is vital to the team's progress. The Indiana Fever (13-15, .464 winning percentage) are seventh in the WNBA.

Despite the team starting slowly this season, it wouldn't last long until Caitlin Clark and the rest of the squad would hone their chemistry on the court. The results have been impressive for a young ball club.