Caitlin Clark may have just cemented her name in the WNBA history books, but a looming suspension could derail the Indiana Fever’s playoff hopes. The young star picked up her fifth technical foul of the season, inching her dangerously close to an automatic suspension.

In Sunday’s commanding 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm, Clark broke Ticha Penicheiro’s 1998 rookie record for most assists in a season, yet it wasn’t just her record-breaking performance that stole headlines.

Midway through the third quarter, Clark’s frustration boiled over after missing a 3-pointer. She vented by hitting the backstop behind the basket, which led to a questionable technical foul.

The call came despite the fact that her actions weren’t directed at another player or official. Clark later addressed the situation, acknowledging her emotions but defending her actions.

“I was frustrated with myself, not with anyone else,”Clark told reporters. “It reminded me of the technical I got in college for saying ‘damn it.’ It’s just my competitive nature, nothing to do with the refs, team, or other players.”

It all happened in the heat of the game

Though Clark’s actions may have been out of passion, they bring serious consequences. In the WNBA, a player is automatically suspended after receiving seven technical fouls in a season.

The Fever’s star is now just two technicals away from sitting out a game. With only 12 games left in the regular season, every matchup is crucial as Indiana battles to secure a playoff spot.

Despite the potential suspension looming, Clark saw a silver lining. “I think he [the official] fired me up to play harder,” she said. “We got better after that. So, in a weird way, I want to thank him.”

Clark’s contribution is vital for the Fever

The Fever, currently 13-15 and sitting seventh in the WNBA standings, are clinging to playoff contention. Clark’s stats speak for themselves: she leads the team in scoring (17.8 points per game), assists (8.3), and steals (1.4), and ranks third in rebounding (5.8). Losing her even for one game could spell disaster for Indiana’s postseason aspirations.

Clark’s next opportunity to add to her stellar season will come on August 25 against the Minnesota Lynx. But with each game as critical as the last, the pressure is on Clark not just to deliver for her team but to keep her composure and avoid the technicals that could sideline her at the most pivotal moment.