Caitlin Clark had already made her mark on Friday night, scoring 29 points and dishing out 10 assists in the Indiana Fever’s 98-89 win over the Phoenix Mercury. She was unstoppable throughout the game, but as the final seconds ticked away, Clark had the chance to pad her stats and push her performance even further.
With the shot clock winding down and the victory secured, Clark could have easily added to her total, potentially turning her night into a 30-point, 10-assist game. Instead, she chose to let the clock run out, dribbling the ball and taking a 24-second violation rather than taking one last shot.
It was a classy move that showed her maturity and respect for the game, opting not to show up her opponents even when she had the opportunity. WNBA fans and commentators took notice of the rookie’s decision, recognizing the veteran-like poise and sportsmanship she displayed in that moment.
Here’s a look at her final play, along with some of the reactions from fans who appreciated her choice to prioritize sportsmanship over stats.
Caitlin Clark 1 point away from a 30 and 10 game decides to not stat pad and take the 24 second violation pic.twitter.com/GnGseme4ZS
— Magic Bronson (@MagicsBurner) August 17, 2024
Bookmark this for if you *ever* hear anyone mention stat padding again in reference to Caitlin Clark.
1 point away from her career high.
2 points from 100.This is her. pic.twitter.com/a7K65tvgZq
— Jess (@FeverBandwagon) August 17, 2024
Class.
— Jonathan Averett (@jonathanaverett) August 17, 2024
https://twitter.com/CallSaul505575/status/1824680524847387057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1824680524847387057%7Ctwgr%5E9f1cf9365d1a735f3a6b80af32935501c477ff5a%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fh5.newsbreakapp.com%2Fmp%2F0v1NAJg8%3Fcv%3D23.41.0platform%3D1hybrid%3Dtrueversion%3D23.41.0dark%3DtrueisDark%3D1fontScale%3D1.0isFollow%3D0_native_ads%3D1font_scale%3D1.0
