Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever's star player, experienced a painful incident during Sunday night's game against the Las Vegas Aces, which saw her struck by an elbow from opponent Chelsea Gray. The play was reviewed by referees as a potential 'hostile act' but concluded with a common foul being called.

During the second quarter of the Fever's 109-75 victory, Clark attempted to defend Gray. As Gray took a shot, she appeared to use her left elbow to strike Clark in the midriff. Clark fell to the floor in apparent agony following the contact.

The review process itself drew frustration from Gray and her teammate Becky Hammon, who protested the decision. Clark remained on the court during the review, and upon returning to her feet, was observed holding her back, an area where she has recently experienced injury issues.

Despite the review for a 'hostile act,' the referees ultimately determined the play to be a common foul. This ruling visibly displeased Clark, who was heard expressing her disagreement as head coach Stephanie White guided her to the bench. Referees reviewed the play for a 'hostile act' but, ultimately, Gray faced no punishment A common foul was eventually called on Clark, causing her to protest to the referees

This incident adds to a series of physical encounters involving Clark. Last month, Phoenix Mercury player Alyssa Thomas received a one-game suspension without pay for a 'non-basketball act' after punching Clark in the throat. Following that incident, a group of 11 Republican lawmakers sent a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, calling for accountability regarding what they described as multiple attacks on Clark. Fever star Caitlin Clark was punched in the throat by Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas

Clark is currently managing five technical fouls this season, placing her close to a one-game suspension. The elbow incident occurred while she was also on a minutes restriction due to a lingering back injury.

In the game itself, Clark contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 27 points, marking her 39th consecutive game scoring in double figures. Aliyah Boston added a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds. For the Aces, A'ja Wilson scored 20 points and Chelsea Gray added 15. The victory improved the Fever's standing while the Aces fell into a second-place tie with the Golden State Golden State.```json{