After nearly a month-long break, Caitlin Clark returned to the court without missing a beat. The 22-year-old rookie sensation dominated the first half of Friday’s game against the Phoenix Mercury, racking up 16 points, five assists, and four rebounds while shooting an impressive 55.6% from the field. Thanks to Clark’s stellar play, the Indiana Fever jumped to a commanding 54-37 lead at home.
Clark dazzled the crowd with her shooting, draining multiple three-pointers, and delivered a jaw-dropping cross-court pass to Kelsey Mitchell, who finished the play to extend the Fever’s lead to 25 points. The electrifying performance was met with enthusiasm from everyone at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, including Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton, fresh off his Olympic gold medal win with Team USA.
Haliburton took to social media to urge fans to tune in, praising the show Clark was putting on. But Clark wasn’t the only Fever player to catch Haliburton’s attention. NaLyssa Smith also impressed, making a tough basket in the paint over two Mercury defenders, which fired up the Pacers star even more.
Caitlin Clark was feelin' it vs. the Mercury in the first half ♨️
The Fever hold a 17-point lead. pic.twitter.com/bvVP3Pgxqf
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) August 17, 2024
Despite the Fever’s dominance, the Mercury fought back, narrowing the gap to 73-65 by the end of the third quarter. However, Clark and the Fever held their ground in the fourth quarter, ultimately securing a 98-89 victory.
tough bucket from NaLyssa Smith 😈@TyHaliburton22 approves. pic.twitter.com/PS6KcrjB1p
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) August 17, 2024
With this win, Clark continues to prove why she’s one of the most exciting players in the league, leading the Fever to a 12-15 record as they push towards a playoff spot.
