Valkyries HC Says 'We Know' Caitlin Clark 'Doesn’t Like Physicality' After 0-7 from 3

The Golden State Valkyries believe they know how to defend Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.

The expansion franchise was able to limit Clark to just 11 points in an 88-77 win for Golden State. Clark shot only 3-of-14 from the floor and a dismal 0-of-7 from three-point range.

Following the game, Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase spoke about the team's focus on physical play and how that is not amenable to Clark's style.

“We were being disruptive, we know she doesn’t like physicality," Nakase told reporters. "And we know she wants to get back to that left step-back.”

Clark is in her second WNBA season and is averaging 19.9 points, 8.7 assists and 5.7 rebounds in seven games. She missed some time with a quad injury but will now look to help lead the Fever back to the postseason.

While she has remained impactful, the Valkyries' strategy did limit her ability to be the leading force on offense. She was able to contribute nine assists and seven rebounds, but her shooting struggles contributed to the Fever's loss.

It's also not a new strategy, as Clark has been on the receiving end of contact throughout her WNBA career. This hasn't stopped her consistently so far, but other teams could keep Nakase's comments in mind when they play Clark and the Fever.