Caitlin Clark, the frontrunner for WNBA Rookie of the Year, delivered a stellar performance to power the Indiana Fever to a commanding 100-81 road victory over the Chicago Sky. In a much-anticipated showdown with fellow rookie standout Angel Reese, Clark set a new career-high with 31 points, further solidifying her status as one of the league’s rising stars.
Clark’s impressive stat line included 12 assists, as she efficiently led her team to victory, shooting 8-for-14 from the field, 5-for-9 from beyond the arc, and nearly perfect 10-for-11 from the free-throw line. Her standout performance not only marked her third 30-point game as a pro but also her ninth career double-double.
The win brings the Fever to an even 16-16 on the season, strengthening their playoff aspirations. Reflecting on the team’s progress, Clark highlighted the growing chemistry within the squad: “I think we just understand each other a lot better. Having the chemistry and having the time to play with one another, you just build confidence. I think you’re seeing that. … I’m proud of this group.”
Clark also had some fun with the fans at Winturst Arena in Chicago, playfully engaging with them after an and-one opportunity, adding to the excitement of the night.
Crying at Caitlin Clark asking Sky fans did that go in after the And 1 https://t.co/K0YUDVsy4u
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) August 31, 2024
Two-time All-Star Kelsey Mitchell contributed 23 points for the Fever, shooting 9-for-13 from the field and 3-for-5 from deep, further bolstering Indiana’s offensive firepower.
On the other side, Angel Reese posted a double-double of her own with 10 points and 11 rebounds, setting new records in the process. Reese now holds the single-season record for most double-doubles and most rebounds by a rookie, both previously held by Tina Charles. She is also just five boards shy of tying Sylvia Fowles’ single-season WNBA rebounding record of 404, set in 2018.
Despite their struggles on the road this season, the Fever have now won four of their five games since returning from the Olympic break, improving their road record to 7-11. Overall, the Fever are 15-8 since their challenging 1-8 start to the season and currently sit sixth in the WNBA standings. With eight of the league’s 12 teams making the playoffs, Indiana’s postseason prospects are looking increasingly promising.
As for the Sky, they hold onto the eighth and final playoff spot with an 11-20 record, but their position remains precarious as they are tied in the win column with the Atlanta Dream.
Clark’s standout performance and the Fever’s growing momentum set the stage for an exciting push towards the playoffs, with the rookie sensation leading the charge.
