As the start of the 2025 WNBA regular season approaches, the Indiana Fever have been making headlines with their impressive performances in the preseason, particularly during a recent game against the Brazilian national team at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This venue holds special significance for Fever star Caitlin Clark, who made her name as a member of the Iowa Hawkeyes from 2021 to 2024, becoming the NCAA's all-time leading career scorer. In a remarkable display of skill, Clark hit a long 3-pointer from the very spot where she made history, further solidifying her star status.
During this friendly competition, which ended in a staggering 108-44 victory for the Fever, Clark shone brightly, contributing 16 points, including a jaw-dropping 36-foot 3-pointer. The game not only showcased her talent but also attracted significant attention, with ESPN reporting that the broadcast averaged 1.3 million viewers—one of the highest ratings for a WNBA preseason game in recent years.
Megan Rapinoe, a former WNBA star and partner of Sue Bird, praised Clark's ability to rise to the occasion. "I think one of the things I love most about Caitlin is her understanding and willingness to meet the moment and do the thing that she knows everyone wants her to do," Rapinoe stated. This sentiment echoes the excitement surrounding Clark as she prepares for her second season in the WNBA.
Last season, Clark had a phenomenal rookie year, averaging 19.2 points and a league-high 8.4 assists per game. Her performance earned her the Rookie of the Year title and a spot on the All-Star team. Under her leadership, the Fever improved significantly, going from a disappointing 13-27 record in 2023 to a respectable 20-20 in 2024, making the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Although they were swept in the first round, expectations are high this year, with many considering them championship contenders.
This offseason, the Fever made strategic moves to bolster their roster. They added veteran forward Natasha Howard, known for her scoring prowess, and selected Makayla Timpson, a talented frontcourt player from Florida State, in last month’s draft. With a promising core that includes Clark, guard Kelsey Mitchell, and forward Aliyah Boston, the Fever are poised for a strong season.
However, the road to the regular season has not been without its challenges. Just a week ago, fans were left in a state of panic when Clark was listed as questionable on the injury report due to a left leg issue before their preseason game against the Washington Mystics. Fortunately, Clark was able to take the court against Brazil just a day later, playing 19 minutes and showcasing her resilience.
Reflecting on her injury status, Clark expressed optimism during a media session on May 9. "I feel really good, honestly. Excited to get out there and play again tomorrow, work on things that we need to work on. Our medical staff has been very helpful," she said. Clark reassured fans that she is not limited in practice, emphasizing that the injury was not serious, likely stemming from "too much basketball." This positive update has undoubtedly eased the minds of Fever supporters.
As the Fever prepare for their final preseason game against the Atlanta Dream on Saturday, May 10, the excitement continues to build. The matchup is particularly important as both teams are looking to shake off their first-round playoff eliminations from 2024. The Fever and Dream will meet at Gateway Center Arena in College Park, Georgia, at 3 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on PeachtreeTV or via WNBA League Pass.
Leading up to this crucial game, Indiana Fever players were spotted cheering on the NBA’s Indiana Pacers, wearing “Boom Baby” shirts—a phrase famously coined by late Pacers coach Bobby “Slick” Leonard. Clark was front and center, embodying the team spirit and camaraderie that fans love to see. While some fans expressed concern over her absence from the Pacers game, many took to social media to celebrate her infectious enthusiasm.
As the Fever gear up for their final preseason dress rehearsal, the anticipation surrounding Caitlin Clark and her team is palpable. With a blend of star power, strategic roster enhancements, and a supportive fan base, the Fever are ready to make a significant impact this season. The upcoming game against the Dream will not only serve as a test for their newly formed lineup but also a chance for fans to rally behind their favorite players as they embark on what promises to be an exciting journey in the 2025 WNBA season.
