Indiana Fever's standout rookie Caitlin Clark experienced a challenging moment during their first-round playoff match against the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. Clark, who recently earned the title of AP WNBA Rookie of the Year, was hit in the eye by Connecticut Sun guard DiJonai Carrington while attempting to make a pass to teammate Aliyah Boston in the first quarter. Despite no foul being called on the play, Clark had to take a moment to compose herself following the incident.

Clark's contribution to the Fever this season has been significant, helping the team secure a spot in the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season. The rookie's impact on the court was notable as Indiana reached the milestone of winning at least 20 games for the first time since the 2015 season. However, Clark faced a tough start in the playoff game against the Sun, finishing the first half with three points and struggling from 3-point range, going 0-for-6.

Throughout the regular season, clashes between Caitlin Clark and DiJonai Carrington were not uncommon. Their rivalry intensified during one particular game where Carrington mocked Clark for her foul-drawing technique. Additionally, Carrington made headlines in August when she criticized Fever fans, labeling them the "nastiest" in the WNBA after facing negative comments on social media. The tension between the two players added an extra layer of drama to their on-court matchups.