Caitlin Clark Raises Eyebrows with Postgame Remark: “The Mystics Seem to Play with Six Persons on the Cycle”

May 9, 2025 – Washington, D.C. — After a nail-biting matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Washington Mystics, rookie sensation Caitlin Clark made headlines yet again—but this time, not for her dazzling performance on the court. In a postgame interview with ESPN, Clark made a cryptic and provocative comment that has since sparked conversation across the WNBA landscape: “The Mystics seem to play with six persons on the cycle.”

The quote came in response to a question about how the Fever struggled to close out critical possessions late in the fourth quarter. While Clark did not elaborate further during the brief interview, the remark immediately triggered speculation on social media and among analysts. Was she hinting at perceived unfair officiating? Was she commenting on the Mystics’ energy level, teamwork—or something else entirely?

A Controversial Remark

The term “six persons on the cycle” is not a standard basketball idiom, but fans and analysts quickly drew possible interpretations. Most notably, many took Clark’s words as an indirect accusation that the referees had favored the Mystics, effectively giving them an extra player on the court.

Former WNBA player and current ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike offered her take during the postgame show:

“Caitlin’s comment is ambiguous, but let’s be honest—players don’t use phrases like ‘six on the floor’ or ‘six in the cycle’ by accident. It’s likely she felt the officiating made it feel like Indiana was playing 5-on-6 out there.”

Others saw Clark’s comment less as an officiating critique and more as a compliment—albeit a backhanded one. The Mystics, led by Ariel Atkins and Sika Kone, put on an inspired performance with aggressive defense, fast rotations, and suffocating double-teams throughout the game. From this perspective, Clark might have been acknowledging the Mystics’ cohesion and hustle, which made them feel like more than five players on the court.

Context Behind the Comments

The Fever came into the game hoping to build momentum early in the season, especially with Clark still adjusting to the WNBA’s pace and physicality. Though Indiana showed flashes of brilliance—including an 11-0 run in the second quarter—they ultimately fell short, losing by a narrow margin.

Clark, who played 28 minutes, finished with 12 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. However, she also committed 4 turnovers and was visibly frustrated by the Mystics’ relentless pressure. Several of her drives to the rim ended in contact with no foul call, leading to speculation that her postgame comments were aimed directly at the referees.

Reactions from Both Sides

Washington Mystics head coach Eric Thibault chose not to comment directly on Clark’s statement but said:

“We play hard. We prepare hard. I’m proud of our team and the way we executed, especially defensively. That’s all I’ll say.”

Meanwhile, Fever head coach Christie Sides downplayed the remark when asked by reporters:

“Caitlin’s passionate. She plays to win. I don’t think there’s anything more to read into it. We’ll watch film, learn, and move forward.”

A Rookie Still Finding Her Voice

Clark’s transition from NCAA superstar to WNBA rookie has been closely followed, and moments like these demonstrate both the pressure and scrutiny she faces. Her competitive fire and willingness to speak her mind have endeared her to fans, but also left her vulnerable to criticism.

Whether her remark was a veiled jab at officiating or a poetic way of describing the Mystics’ unity, one thing is certain: Caitlin Clark continues to make headlines—and spark conversations—every time she takes the mic.