
There has been a lot of talk surrounding Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark’s history with rookie Raven Johnson.
These two crossed paths in college. Clark infamously waved off a wide-open Johnson at the three-point line during the Final Four of the 2023 NCAA tournament. The incident went viral. Johnson later admitted that she got bullied online, forcing her to seriously consider quitting basketball altogether.
Johnson, however, was quick to play down the rivalry now that they’re on the same team. In fact, the former South Carolina Gamecocks star said that Clark has been one of the players she’s been leaning on amid Johnson’s transition with her new squad.
Clark had nothing but praise for Johnson on Saturday following Indiana’s 109-91 victory over the New York Liberty in their preseason matchup. Johnson had an eye-opening debut for the Fever, registering six points on 3-of-3 from the floor, with three rebounds, eight assists, a steal and two blocks in 18 minutes of action.
“I think just helping (the rookies) as much as I can—especially Raven, who’s going to be a primary ball handler and trying to conduct the offense—that’s a big responsibility,” Clark said. “I think it’s about empowering her to use her voice and also do what she does really well. She’s a great defender, has long arms, and gets her hands all over the ball.
“… For Raven, she asks a lot of questions, and that can be intimidating, too. But she’s done a really great job of that. I’m really proud of her.”
Caitlin Clark on Raven Johnson and the Fever rookies (complete with a pause) pic.twitter.com/gKEfXFAH8f
— Robin Lundberg (@robinlundberg) April 25, 2026
Clark’s comments on Johnson quickly drew attention on social media.
“Of course it was going to be this way, with CC and Raven getting along great. Anyone who thought otherwise needs to examine what they’re reading into things,” a comment on X read.
“Raven looked so good out there. Steal of the draft,” another declared.
“Awwww bookies CC x RJ
” a user posted.
“CC said she wants to help the rookies through the transition & gave them props for attacking it head on. Shouted out Raven esp at PG, wants her to keep using her voice and doing what she does best: defense, length, active hands,” a reaction read.
“CC vet era in year 3,” said another.
“Raven did say she asked a lot of questions
” a fan wrote. The Fever expect big things from Johnson in her rookie year. For her part, Clark is clearly willing to do what she can to help Johnson put herself in a position to succeed.
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