Caitlin Clark’s Iowa Coach Lisa Bluder Calls for WNBA Rule Changes and Stricter Penalties

Published: June 20, 2025

Indianapolis, Indiana — Lisa Bluder, head coach of the University of Iowa women’s basketball team and former mentor to WNBA star Caitlin Clark, recently spoke out about the need for changes in the WNBA’s rules and officiating standards. Her comments come amid increasing physicality faced by Clark during league games.

Bluder Advocates for Improved Officiating and Rule Adjustments

In a recent interview, Bluder expressed concern over the level of physical play and its impact on athletes like Clark. She emphasized that the league should allow for more freedom of movement and tighten officiating to prevent unnecessary roughness.

“I feel like the officiating has got to change. I feel like it’s got to get better and I feel like there has to be a little more freedom of movement,” Bluder stated.

She noted that while Clark is not specifically targeted, the aggressive defensive tactics against her can lead to fouls that risk player safety.

Call for Harsher Penalties to Promote Player Safety

Bluder also urged the league to impose stricter fines and suspensions for flagrant fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct.

“There has to be a suspension and a fine for that, because that sends a signal,” she added.

These remarks follow a recent game between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun, where multiple players were penalized for aggressive fouls. The WNBA later admitted an officiating error for failing to eject a player after a flagrant foul on Clark.

Impact on Caitlin Clark and the WNBA

Caitlin Clark continues to be one of the league’s most talented and dynamic players, but the increased physicality she faces has raised concerns about long-term health and the overall safety of players in the league.

Bluder’s call for reforms aims to protect players and maintain a competitive yet safe environment in the WNBA.

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