Indiana Fever head coach Christie Sides is facing significant criticism following her recent handling of a crucial game moment involving star player Caitlin Clark. In a tightly contested match against the Las Vegas Aces, the Fever trailed by three points with less than 30 seconds remaining. Sides called a timeout to strategize the final play, leading many to anticipate that either Clark or Kelsey Mitchell would take the pivotal three-point shot. Contrary to expectations, the play culminated with second-year center Aliyah Boston attempting the shot, which missed, resulting in a 78-74 loss for the Fever.
Fans expressed their frustration on social media platforms, questioning Sides’ decision-making in such a critical moment. One fan commented, “How does Indiana not get the ball into Caitlin Clark’s hands for the game-tying shot @ChristieSides what are you doing?” Another added, “Christie Sides called a play for Aliyah to shoot a three? Is this real life??”
This incident adds to a series of controversies surrounding Sides’ management this season. Earlier, she faced backlash for publicly sharing a private text message from Clark after the star guard was omitted from Team USA’s final roster for the Paris Olympics. Clark had texted Sides, “Hey coach, they woke a monster,” a message Sides disclosed to the media. Fans criticized this revelation, deeming it unprofessional to share personal communications without consent.
The Fever’s performance this season has also been underwhelming, with the team holding an 11-15 record and occupying the seventh spot in the WNBA standings. Despite Sides’ assertion that “making the playoffs is our goal,” fans believe the team’s aspirations should be higher, especially with talents like Clark on the roster. One fan remarked, “Making the playoffs is not a good goal. Top 4 should be with the talent on this team.”
The accumulation of these issues has led to intensified scrutiny of Sides’ coaching strategies and her rapport with players. As the Fever approach the season’s final stretch, the pressure mounts on Sides to address these concerns and steer the team toward a more successful trajectory.
