Caitlin Clark, the standout rookie star for the Indiana Fever, has faced some tough screens during her inaugural WNBA season, and one particular incident has left a lasting impact. On Saturday, Clark revealed to reporters that she suffered a ruptured eardrum from a screen while playing against the New York Liberty earlier in the season.

“I actually ruptured my eardrum when we were in New York on a tough screen,” Clark shared, reflecting on her “welcome to the WNBA moment,” as reported by USA Today. “So, if I had to pick one right now, it would probably be that. But, great screens. I just didn’t hear them. So, it’s kind of my own fault.”

The incident occurred during a June 2 game against the Liberty, according to the Indy Star. WNBA fans have pointed to Jonquel Jones’ screen as the likely cause of Clark’s injury. In that play, Clark was guarding Liberty guard Courtney Vandersloot, who was dribbling the ball up the floor. Jones, standing at 6-foot-6 and a former WNBA MVP, set the screen that Clark ran directly into, leading to the injury.

I think this was the play that ruptured Caitlin Clark’s eardrum on June 2 https://t.co/MnbhZ9XwR1 pic.twitter.com/nC1RtNJBVE

— Heavens! (@HeavensFX) June 21, 2024

This wasn’t the first time Clark had encountered a hard screen from the Liberty. In a previous matchup in May, Breanna Stewart set a pick that sent Clark to the floor. These physical plays have been part of Clark’s challenging but impressive rookie season.

Despite these tough moments, Clark has been performing exceptionally well. She is averaging 16.2 points per game, demonstrating her sharpshooting abilities and resilience on the court. Her standout performances have not gone unnoticed, as she currently ranks second in All-Star votes.

Angel Reese takes total swing at Caitlin Clark’s head, gets flagrant foul. They hate Clark because she’s white. Fever have to get an enforcer or Clark’s going to be knocked out for the year on one of these plays: pic.twitter.com/865KEUpLUv

— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) June 16, 2024

Clark’s ability to maintain her high level of play, even after sustaining such a significant injury, speaks volumes about her toughness and dedication. The ruptured eardrum incident, should be a signal to the WNBA that they need to get a handle on the behavior taking place on the court.