Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever made a powerful statement in their return to the WNBA following the league’s nearly month-long Olympic break, delivering a thrilling performance that reignited fan enthusiasm.
In their first game back, the Fever secured a vital 98-89 win over the Phoenix Mercury, with Clark at the forefront. The rookie sensation displayed her exceptional skills, finishing with 29 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds. Kelsey Mitchell also played a key role, adding 28 points to help seal the victory.
no hesitation deep three from Caitlin Clark 🎯 pic.twitter.com/U6RbKdDJqM
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) August 16, 2024
Despite the lengthy layoff, Clark showed no signs of slowing down, quickly racking up 16 points within the first eight minutes, setting an aggressive pace for the rest of the game. Her dominant performance reminded fans and critics alike—including Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton—why she’s the clear favorite for the Rookie of the Year award.
Hope y’all seeing what 22 doin at Gainbridge
— Tyrese Haliburton (@TyHaliburton22) August 17, 2024
Caitlin Clark still best show in basketball
— year 22 (@johnrivers131) August 16, 2024
Knew the break would do wonders for Caitlin Clark but even this is a LOT
— Harry Lyles Jr. (@harrylylesjr) August 17, 2024
The WNBA better be nervous because Caitlin Clark is rested and thriving.
She's putting it all together…
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) August 17, 2024
Caitlin Clark is the ROY
— LegendOfWinning (@LegendOfWinning) August 17, 2024
There is no rookie of the year race. It’s Caitlin Clark’s award lmao
— Rizzo (@RizzooMMA) August 17, 2024
I see Caitlin Clark woke up and chose violence against everyone who got to play in the Olympics instead of her
— Daniel Hodes (@danhodes) August 17, 2024
We haven’t seen a really rested Caitlin Clark in about 11 months. Look out.
— Michael Graham (@michaelgraham) August 16, 2024
This rookie of the year debate has to STOP. It belongs to Caitlin Clark.
— Dorian D Dear (@RealDorianDear) August 17, 2024
they laughed at me when i said Caitlin Clark is LOWKEY the MVP of the league 🤣🔥
— 73-9 and THEY LIED (@CuffsTheLegend) August 17, 2024
This victory lifted the Fever to a 12-15 record, strengthening their hold on the No. 7 spot in the WNBA standings. This marks a significant turnaround for the team, which only won 13 games last season. With Clark leading the charge, the Fever are now just one win away from matching their total victories from the previous year.
As the second half of the season unfolds, Clark’s leadership will be pivotal in driving the Fever toward even greater success. With her Olympic snub fueling her fire, the rookie star is determined to make every game count, solidifying her dominance in the Rookie of the Year race and pushing the Fever closer to the playoffs.
