New Footage Shows Caitlin Clark Coaching the Fever During Liberty Matchup — Fans Say She’s Doing More Than Just Playing
In a stunning twist to an already intense rivalry, new footage from Sunday’s game between the Indiana Fever and New York Liberty appears to show rookie star Caitlin Clark stepping far beyond her role as point guard — taking on what fans are calling “a de facto coaching role” for her struggling team.
The Indiana Fever ultimately fell to the powerhouse Liberty, 94–90, but it wasn’t the final score making headlines on Monday. A viral courtside clip — now with over 3.5 million views on X — shows Clark animatedly diagramming plays during a timeout, instructing teammates, and even calling out defensive assignments in huddles.
“She’s literally coaching this team mid-game,” one fan wrote. “Caitlin Clark isn’t just running the offense — she’s leading the entire organization right now.”
The Clip That Sparked It All
The moment that captured attention came during a crucial timeout in the fourth quarter. The Fever were trailing by six, and head coach Christie Sides had pulled the team to the bench. As the camera zoomed in, Clark could be seen taking a whiteboard, speaking directly to her teammates, and motioning through play options while Sides stood off to the side.
To some, it looked like a collaborative effort. To others, it looked like Clark had assumed the role of floor general and bench strategist.
“She was calling for staggered screens, pointing to matchups, yelling ‘ice that!’ on defense,” said ESPN analyst Monica McNutt. “It’s rare to see a rookie take that much ownership in just her first year — but that’s the kind of leadership Caitlin Clark brings.”
Taking Charge as the Franchise Face
Though just 23 games into her WNBA career, Clark has already assumed the role of franchise centerpiece for the Indiana Fever. Her poise, basketball IQ, and competitive drive have made her not just the league’s most popular player — but arguably its most influential.
“She’s acting like a veteran,” said former NBA point guard J.J. Redick. “Coaches either trust that or they don’t. And from what we saw last night, it looks like Indiana needs her voice right now.”
The Fever, still struggling to find offensive consistency and defensive identity, have leaned heavily on Clark’s vision. She leads the team in both points and assists, and her presence has elevated teammates like Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell — even if the team’s record remains underwhelming.
What the Coach Says
When asked about Clark’s involvement during the game, Coach Sides downplayed any tension or overreach.
“Caitlin sees things on the floor that even coaches don’t,” Sides said postgame. “She’s an extension of the coaching staff — that’s what great point guards do. We trust her voice.”
Still, fans are questioning whether Clark’s increasingly vocal leadership reflects something deeper — a team in disarray, or a young star taking on too much, too soon.
The Fan Reactions
Social media has exploded with reactions, ranging from admiration to concern:
“Give Caitlin Clark a clipboard and call her Player-Coach Clark. She’s doing it all.”
“This is awesome but also… where’s the actual coaching staff?”
“She’s a born leader. Indiana is lucky to have her — if they don’t waste her.”
Others pointed out the contrast between Clark’s body language and that of her teammates, raising concerns about locker room dynamics.
Bigger Than the Box Score
Despite the loss to the Liberty, Clark finished with 33 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds — once again showing her ability to compete with the league’s elite. But it was her sideline presence that stole the spotlight.
As the Fever continue their rollercoaster season, one thing is clear: Caitlin Clark isn’t just playing like a future MVP — she’s leading like one, too.
