In what marked arguably the most highly anticipated preseason game in WNBA history, Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever faced the Dallas Wings on Friday night.
And when it came to Clark’s professional debut, the former Iowa superstar didn’t disappoint.
Playing 28 minutes, the two-time National Player of the Year scored 21 points on 6-of-15 shooting and added three rebounds, two assists and two steals as the Fever fell to the Stars 79-76 in Arlington, Texas. But while the Wings emerged victorious, it was Clark’s performance that was the biggest takeaway for most, as she appeared plenty capable of translating her game from college to the professional level.
Caitlin Clark shakes off the defender and buries her fourth three of the half 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/WgebQlW0xu
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 4, 2024
On one play in particular, Clark set up for a step back 3-point shot, which sent Wings point guard Jacy Sheldon — a former Big Ten rival at Ohio State — falling to the ground. A still shot of the move proceeded to go viral on social media, as it seemingly symbolized the difficulties defenders face in trying to contain Clark.
This pic of Caitlin Clark’s step back 😤😮💨
(📸: Gregory Shamus) pic.twitter.com/q2j5f0rw4U
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 4, 2024
While Clark’s efficiency left something to be desired, her preseason debut was obviously an encouraging sign for the outlook of her rookie season. As for what’s next, the Fever will return to the court for a preseason matchup against the Atlanta Dream on May 9 before opening their 2024 season on May 14 against the Connecticut Sun.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.