Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides' Game Plan Criticized in Pivotal Loss

Indiana Fever head coach Christie Sides faced criticism for her game plan in the closing moments of Sunday's loss against the Chicago Sky. Despite holding a 15-point lead at the end of the third quarter, the Fever squandered it and were outscored in the fourth quarter. Rookie standout Caitlin Clark, who had a franchise-record 13 assists, was not involved in the offense during the crucial final minutes.

## Article:

Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides' Game Plan Criticized in Pivotal Loss

### Coach Sides' Controversial Decision

Indiana Fever head coach Christie Sides' game plan came under fire as the team lost a pivotal matchup against the Chicago Sky on Sunday. With a 15-point lead at the end of the third quarter, the Fever seemed poised for victory. However, they only managed to score five points in the final 6:38 of the game and were outscored 24-15 in the fourth quarter. The team's inability to close out the game raised questions about Sides' strategy.

Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides' Game Plan Criticized in Pivotal Loss

### Clark's Absence in the Clutch

Rookie sensation Caitlin Clark was a key player for the Fever throughout the game. She led the team in scoring and assists with 17 points and 13 assists. However, Clark did not attempt a shot in the final 2:19 of the game, a decision that has been widely criticized.

Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides' Game Plan Criticized in Pivotal Loss

### Sides' Explanation and Apology

Sides defended her decision to not involve Clark in the offense during the closing moments. She stated that she expected Clark to be more aggressive and take shots. However, she also acknowledged that the team needed to do a better job at closing out games.

### Griffin and Acho's Critique

Former NFL players Robert Griffin III and Emmanuel Acho were among those who criticized Sides' game plan. Griffin questioned why Clark was not given the opportunity to take the last shot, while Acho emphasized the need for Clark to be more selfish in key moments.

### Public Outcry

The criticism of Sides' game plan was not limited to former players. Fans on social media also expressed their disappointment and confusion over Clark's absence from the offense in the final moments.

### Sky's Triumph

Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky took advantage of the Fever's struggles and secured a hard-fought victory. Angel Reese led the way for the Sky with a double-double of 25 points and 16 rebounds. Chennedy Carter also contributed 23 points.

### Clark's Revelation

Following the game, Clark revealed that she had suffered a ruptured eardrum earlier in the month. While the injury did not affect her ability to play, it may have been a factor in Sides' decision not to involve her in the offense at the end of the game.

### Sides' Responsibility

Sides acknowledged that the Fever's loss was not solely due to her game plan. She emphasized the need for the team to improve defensively and make better decisions in the closing moments of games.

### Future Implications

The Fever's loss has significant implications for their playoff hopes. The team is now 5-10 on the season and must regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in the standings. Sides will need to make adjustments to her game plan and find a way to get the most out of her young team.