Caitlin Clark transitioned from a work in progress on Friday to the Caitlin Clark everyone anticipated, leading to her first career WNBA victory.
The No. 1 overall draft pick shook off a slow start to hit the game-clinching shot in a 78-73 win for the Indiana Fever over the Los Angeles Sparks, ending a five-game losing streak to start the season.
CAITLIN CLARK FROM MALIBU 😱
(via @WNBA)
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) May 25, 2024
Clark had only five points and was 0-of-7 from three-point range entering the final minutes of the game.
Caitlin Clark with the dagger 🗡️
(via @WNBA) pic.twitter.com/N667uXTm0w
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) May 25, 2024
First, Clark pulled up from long range to extend her team’s lead to six points with two-and-a-half minutes remaining.
Then she delivered the decisive blow, making a deep step-back shot to secure the win with 40 seconds left.
Statistically, Clark did not have an outstanding game compared to her numbers at Iowa, scoring 11 points on 4-of-14 shooting (2-of-9 from three-point range). However, she also contributed a team-high 10 rebounds, eight assists, and four steals.
As a rookie given primary ball-handling duties for a team that finished 13-27 last year, and less than two months after completing a full college season, this performance can be seen as a positive step for Clark, who remains a highly promising prospect.
The Fever (1-5) overcame an 11-point halftime deficit, capitalizing on a sloppy game by the Sparks, who committed 19 turnovers. Veteran Kelsey Mitchell led with 18 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter, to power the win. Previous No. 1 pick Aaliyah Boston also contributed significantly with 17 points and six rebounds.
On the Sparks’ side, No. 2 overall pick Cameron Brink had her best game of the season, scoring 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting, with nine rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks. Dearica Hamby had a strong performance as well, with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists.
