Christie Sides defends the bold choice to have Aliyah Boston take the potential game-tying 3-pointer instead of Caitlin Clark or Kelsey Mitchell.
Christie Sides has made remarkable progress in revitalizing the Indiana Fever franchise, but the coach faced criticism for a bold decision in the final moments of her team’s loss to the Las Vegas Aces on Friday.
With time running out and the Aces holding a narrow three-point lead, Sides designed a play that put the final shot in the hands of center Aliyah Boston, rather than guards Caitlin Clark or Kelsey Mitchell. Both Clark and Boston touched the ball, but Boston, left wide open, had the opportunity to tie the game with a corner three. Unfortunately, her shot spun out, and the Aces secured a 78-74 victory.
After the game, Christie Sides stood by her choice to trust Boston with the ball in such a crucial moment.
“It was a great shot that just rimmed out. I have full confidence in her taking that shot. I was completely fine with that wide-open three from Aliyah Boston,” Sides said.
Christie Sides Defends Bold Decision in Fever’s Loss to Aces
Christie Sides has been instrumental in turning around the Indiana Fever franchise, but her decision-making came under scrutiny following a narrow 78-74 loss to the Las Vegas Aces on Friday.
With the clock ticking down and the Aces holding a slim three-point lead, Sides designed a play that gave center Aliyah Boston the chance to take the final shot, instead of guards Caitlin Clark or Kelsey Mitchell. Both Clark and Boston handled the ball, but it was a wide-open Boston who had an opportunity to tie the game with a corner three. Unfortunately, her shot spun out, allowing the Aces to hold on for the win.
After the game, Sides defended her decision to rely on Boston during such a pivotal moment. “It was a great shot that just rimmed out. I have full confidence in her taking that shot. I was completely fine with Aliyah Boston having that wide-open three,” said Sides.
Sides had instructed Boston to be prepared for the final shot, as she acknowledged the increased defensive pressure on Clark and Mitchell, two of the Fever’s top shooters. “Teams know it’s going to be tough to get Caitlin a shot in those situations… they’re going to plan for Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell,” Sides explained.
The decision, though bold, highlights Sides’ confidence in her players and the strategic challenges posed by opposing defenses.
