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Valkyries Coach Makes Strong Caitlin Clark Statement Before Fever Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 11:02 PM ET

The Indiana Fever were set to face the Golden State Valkyries for the first time this season, showcasing a matchup between Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin.

Before Clark faced off against the Valkyries, Golden State head coach Natalie Nakase spoke with the media.

Nakase, who's working through the inaugural season of being head coach of the Valkyries, shared her thoughts on Clark.

The Valkyries head coach explained the troubles of guarding Clark, mentioning her skilled range and comfortability on the offensive end.

"You gotta pick her up higher," Nakase said. "She shoots from a logo you can't pick her up at a logo just because, that's a super comfortable shot. It's almost like a layup to her. Need to get her going to her left."

Natalie Nakase talked about how the Valks will matchup with Caitlin Clark.

“You gotta pick her up higher. She shoots from a logo you can't pick her up at a logo just because, that's a super comfortable shot. It's almost like a layup to her. Need to get her going to her left.” pic.twitter.com/TNfZuJF4OX
— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) June 20, 2025

Caitlin Clark entered the WNBA as a premier scorer. Before entering the professional atmosphere, Clark earned the top spot on the NCAA's all-time scoring list for both men's and women's college basketball.

During her four-year career with the Iowa Hawkeyes at the collegiate level, Clark scored 3,951 points.

Clark posted 28.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game, during her time at Iowa, where she led the Hawkeyes to two Final Four appearances.

The Fever guard played alongside Kate Martin, who's averaged 5.6 points, 2.5 rebounds and 0.5 assists per game during her first season with the Valkyries.

In her second season with the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark has posted 21.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 8.7 assists per game.

Before the game against the Valkyries, Clark has helped lead the Fever to a 6-5 record.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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