Caitlin Clark, after learning she would not be part of the United States women’s national team for the Paris Olympics, reached out to her Indiana Fever coach, Christie Sides, stating, “They woke a monster,” according to Sides.
The absence from the Olympic team provided Clark with a one-month break, allowing her to recharge and refocus. This rest appears to have significantly impacted her performance in the WNBA.
Clark, who transitioned directly from a long season at Iowa to the WNBA, has shown notable improvement. Initially, she faced challenges adjusting to the professional game and developing chemistry with her teammates. However, recent performances indicate a marked enhancement in her game. Over her last two games, she has delivered standout performances, which may alter the dynamics of the WNBA season.
Previously, Clark averaged 15.6 points and 6.4 assists in her first 11 WNBA games, shooting 35.7% from the field and 29.7% from three-point range. Since the announcement of her exclusion from the Olympic roster and during a subsequent 15-game stretch, her averages rose to 18.2 points and 9.5 assists, with shooting percentages improving to 43.9% overall and 35.7% from three-point range. In the two games following the WNBA’s return, she has averaged 26.0 points and 9.5 assists, with a shooting percentage of 48.6%. The Fever won both of these games.
Clark’s rookie season has been marked by rapid transitions, including moving to a new city, starting training camp, and the season opener on May 14, shortly after her Iowa season ended on April 7. She has been a primary focus for opponents, both strategically and emotionally.
Diana Taurasi had predicted Clark’s rise, stating, “Reality is coming.” South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, a member of the USA Basketball selection committee, acknowledged Clark’s elevated performance, noting on July 30, “If we had to do it all over again, the way that she’s playing, she would be in really high consideration of making the team because she is playing head and shoulders above a lot of people.” Despite not being selected, the American team won gold.
Clark, now rested and performing strongly, is poised for a significant impact in the remainder of the WNBA season.
