Caitlin Clark addresses interaction with Indiana's bench in loss

There was no shortage of charged emotions on the court, in the stands or sitting on the bench as Indiana out-dueled Iowa, 86-69, in a key Big Ten women’s basketball showdown. And Iowa star Caitlin Clark was right in the thick of it.

That included a moment where Clark got into it with the Indiana bench. After the game, she demurred on what might’ve been said and unapologetically chalked the moment up to the intensity of the evening

“Basketball’s competitive, that’s what it’s all about,” Clark said.

She also praised the overall competitive intensity on Thursday night at Assembly Hall in Bloomington.

“I think every battle is heated,” Clark said. “When you’re playing against the top teams in the Big Ten, one loss, one win can switch up the standings and switch up battling for a regular season title. That’s exactly how it should be. That’s exactly what women’s basketball should be. It should be heated, it should be that way. And it’s because people care so much and people are passionate about winning and that’s what makes it so fun.”

And whatever sparks came from the game on Thursday, Clark explained she has the utmost respect for the Hoosiers.

“Teri [Moren] said some very nice things to me after the game and I have nothing but respect for their program and what she’s been able to do here and the players that she’s been able to develop,” Clark said. “I’ve played against a lot of really good IU players. So I have all the respect in the world for them.”

Clark demurred on her WNBA future

Clark made it clear that her focus is on her present with her team at Iowa considering it’s already a home for her.

“You know, honestly, I’m just focused on this team right now,” said Clark. “Playing my heart out for Iowa and getting to represent my state every single day. That’s what it’s all about.”

In the end, Clark’s time in the WNBA is going to come at some point or another. That’s why, with another year of eligibility on the table, she’s going to leave that process for after the season since it’ll be in front of her down the line anyways.

“I’m not really too worried about the future,” said Clark. “That is what it is. It comes when it comes – whatever I decide.”

Clark is putting up another stellar season as a sensation at the collegiate level. She’s the nation’s leading scorer and leader in assists at 32.4 points and 8.5 assists per game. That includes 16 performances of 30 or more points that helped her break the all-time scoring record last week.