The Indiana Fever has announced they will host a WNBA preseason game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on May 4, 2025, marking the return of former Hawkeye star Caitlin Clark to her college home. The Fever will face the Brazilian National Team at 6 p.m. ET, with many fans eager to see Clark, who has become one of the most celebrated figures in women's basketball.
Clark, the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, enjoyed significant success during her collegiate career at Iowa. She set the NCAA Division I record as the all-time leading scorer with 3,951 points, and she led the Hawkeyes to two national championship games. This exhibition game will not only showcase her remarkable talent on the professional stage but also provide fans the opportunity to witness her play once more at her beloved arena.
"We couldn’t be more excited to play at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, and we know Iowa fans will deliver an unforgettable homecoming for Caitlin," said Kelly Krauskopf, president of basketball operations for the Fever. The sentiment echoes the deep connection between Clark and the Iowa community, as many Hawkeye fans have rallied around her since her college days.
Joining the Fever for the exhibition is Damiris Dantas, who has represented Brazil at the Olympics and adds to the competitive spirit of the matchup. With both players' international experiences, the game is expected to draw considerable attention from both local and national audiences.
On the day of the game, Iowa will retire Clark’s iconic No. 22 jersey during the ceremony right after the Hawkeyes compete against No. 4 USC at 1:30 p.m. ET. This momentous occasion emphasizes Clark’s pivotal role not just within the university but also within the broader narrative of women's athletics. "Countless Hawkeye fans have become Fever fans, and we see this game as much more than just a matchup; it’s celebration of Caitlin and everything she has achieved here," Krauskopf added.
Tickets for the game will be provided through the University of Iowa, and details are set to be released soon. Fans are encouraged to stay updated through the Fever's social media channels. It is anticipated this exhibition, held just two weeks before the Fever officially opens their 25th WNBA season against Chicago, will incite considerable enthusiasm among the Iowa supporters who have consistently filled the stands during Clark’s college games.
This matchup continues the trend of women's basketball receiving greater recognition and support, with Clark representing the pinnacle of this movement. Her flair for the game and ability to connect with fans has inspired many. It’s no surprise her games are known to draw packed venues, as evidenced by the recent record-breaking attendance during the women’s matchup between Iowa and DePaul, which saw over 55,000 fans.
The Fever's decision to hold this exhibition at Carver-Hawkeye Arena reflects their aim to incorporate community engagement and honor one of the sport’s rising stars. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has been vocal about the importance of growing the league’s footprint domestically, and events like this preseason game play directly to this vision.
With Clark’s return to Iowa, excitement is palpable as she not only relives her glory days but also takes the spotlight on the professional stage, where she will attempt to build upon her impressive rookie season. Clark averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game last season, showcasing her adaptability and skill as she transitioned from collegiate to professional play.
Now, as she prepares for her second season with the Fever, the anticipation surrounding her game at Carver-Hawkeye is undoubtedly significant. "Iowa, are you ready?" the Fever’s official social media teased, as Clark tweeted back simply with a resounding, "Yes!"
With community roots entrenched and vast support projected for the upcoming game, Caitlin Clark’s exhibition on May 4 promises to be not only an exhibition of talent but also a historic occasion celebrating her legacy and the continued rise of women’s basketball.