Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Boldly Put WNBA On Notice

Caitlin Clark, newly drafted by the Indiana Fever, admitted to nerves before her name was called as the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft.

Despite the expected outcome, Clark was visibly moved. “Since second grade, I’ve dreamed of this. It’s been a journey of hard work and many highs and lows, but right now, I’m just trying to soak it all in,” she explained.

The draft day was charged with emotion, not only for Clark but also for her supporters and Iowa family who gathered at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The crowd erupted as Clark held up her new Fever jersey, her future with the team now officially beginning.

Sitting at the draft table, waiting to be called, was a profound moment for Clark. “It’s different from playing; here, I could share this with my family and those who’ve supported me unswervingly. It was incredibly special,” Clark reflected.

Clark, a standout at Iowa and the NCAA’s all-time scoring leader, is set to join forces with Aliyah Boston, last year’s No. 1 pick, in hopes of rejuvenating the Fever. “With one of the world’s best post players on the team, as a point guard, I’m excited,” Clark commented on her new teammate.

The anticipation of Clark turning professional had been building since her announcement on February 29, leading to nearly 17,000 fans claiming tickets to witness the draft event at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Clark’s dynamic play, characterized by her signature midcourt shots and exceptional passing, has captivated millions and was a key factor in the record 18.9 million viewers for the national championship game. Despite the Iowa Hawkeyes’ loss, Clark’s impact on women’s basketball remains significant.

Since Tamika Catchings’ retirement, the Fever has struggled, recording the league’s lowest win percentage. However, with the addition of Boston last season, the team showed signs of improvement, tying their best win record post-Catchings’ era. With Clark’s arrival, hopes are high for breaking the playoff drought.

“Our goal is to return to championship habits,” Clark stated. She also humorously hoped to convert Indiana Hoosier fans, who may not have supported her during her college days, into Fever supporters. “Indianapolis is a great basketball city, and the excitement here today shows that,” she added.

Fever general manager Lin Dunn echoed Clark’s sentiments, emphasizing the fit of Clark’s Midwestern roots with Indianapolis. Reflecting on successful past experiences with back-to-back No. 1 picks leading to championships, Dunn is optimistic. “Bringing Clark into a team with Boston mirrors successful strategies from the past and promises a bright future,” Dunn explained.

As Clark prepares to join the Fever, her focus will be on building strong on-court relationships, especially with Boston and another top pick, NaLyssa Smith. Her role will be pivotal in distributing the ball effectively, enhancing the team’s dynamics and boosting their performance.

At 22, Clark is ready for the challenges of professional basketball, supported by experienced teammates like Kelsey Mitchell and Erica Wheeler. “I’m eager to learn and grow in this new chapter, with great mentors around me,” Clark concluded, looking forward to her debut season.