WNBA star DiJonai Carrington has denied allegations that she intentionally poked Caitlin Clark in the eye during the Connecticut Sun’s Game 1 victory over the Indiana Fever. The incident took place in the first quarter of their WNBA Playoffs First-Round match, with Clark appearing in visible discomfort as she clutched her face after falling to the floor.
Clark, who was recently named the WNBA Rookie of the Year, later appeared with a noticeable black eye following the Fever’s 93-69 loss. However, during a press conference on Tuesday, Clark downplayed the severity of the injury, stating her eye felt much better and confirming she expects to play in the upcoming game at Mohegan Sun Arena.
Fans speculated that Carrington’s actions were deliberate due to the personal rivalry between the two players, a storyline that has gained traction throughout the season. Carrington, however, dismissed these claims, stating she was unaware she had even hit Clark and would never intentionally injure another player.
“I don’t even know why I would aim to hit someone in the eye,” Carrington remarked. “I was just going for the ball. I had no idea I hit her, and it wasn’t intentional. That’s not the kind of player I am.”
