NaLyssa Smith claps back at fans' 'disrespect' after strong performance in Indiana Fever's crushing win over Chicago Sky

Indiana Fever forward NaLyssa Smith had a solid outing in their 100-81 victory over the Chicago Sky on the road on Friday. After the game, she took the opportunity to clap back at fans who criticized or disrespected her.

The No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 WNBA draft came to play against Chicago, helping Indiana with 14 points and seven rebounds to notch their third straight win. She also did a solid job in limiting rookie Angel Reese's play throughout the contest.

The steady performance was a fitting response to what she believed some fans threw at her in the lead-up to the game. After the game, Smith took to X/Twitter and tweeted:

"Make sure dat apology jus as loud as the disrespect was."

NaLyssa Smith's solid outing against the Sky complemented those of All-Star teammates Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell. Clark finished with a double-double of 31 points and 12 assists to go along with four rebounds. Veteran guard Mitchell, meanwhile, had 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting from the field and 3-of-5 from deep.

So far this season, Smith has averaged 10.9 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting almost 60% from the field.

The victory over the Sky at Wintrust Arena on Friday helped thrust the Fever to a .500 record of 16-16 for the first time this season. They are currently sixth overall in the league standings and third in the Eastern Conference and inside the playoffs if the postseason started today.

Smith and Co. will look to strengthen their playoff hopes when they travel to face the Dallas Wings on Sunday.

NaLyssa Smith basks in growing chemistry with rookie star Caitlin Clark

Smith said back in July that her in-game connection with rookie point guard Caitlin Clark has significantly improved as the season progressed, helping her find her footing while contributing to the team's success.

The former Baylor standout highlighted that just as the Fever were starting to turn things around, her developing chemistry with Clark has contributed to the team finding its identity.

NaLyssa Smith said (via ExpressNews.com):

"It's [chemistry with Clark] outstanding. That's my point guard. You've got to have a great relationship with your point guard, and I feel like she's doing a great job."

Smith and Clark have been steady pieces for the Fever this season, alongside All-Stars Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston.

Following their 100-81 win, Indiana now has a .500 record for the first time this season at 16-16, already eclipsing their overall record last campaign of 13-27. Smith and Co. are currently in the thick of the playoff race and have a solid shot of breaking their seven-year postseason drought.