After the Olympic break, Caitlin Clark made a triumphant return to the WNBA, leading the Indiana Fever to a crucial 98-89 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. The star rookie showcased her talent with an impressive performance, contributing her 10th double-double of the season.
Clark, at just 22 years old, displayed her versatility on the court by scoring 29 points, dishing out 10 assists, and grabbing five rebounds. Her impact was felt early in the game as she helped the Fever establish a commanding lead, outscoring the Mercury 33-16 in the first quarter and maintaining a 54-37 advantage at halftime.
Despite a strong comeback effort from the Mercury, led by Kahleah Copper's 32 points, Clark and her teammate Kelsey Mitchell, who added 28 points, ensured the Fever secured the much-needed win.
Speaking after the game, Clark emphasized the team's focus on taking it one game at a time and maintaining their energy and intensity throughout the remainder of the season. Head coach Christie Sides echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of staying present and continuously improving with each game.
The victory marked a promising start to the Fever's push for a playoff spot, with Clark's standout performance serving as a testament to her skill and leadership on the court. As the team looks ahead to the remaining games of the season, they remain committed to their goal of steady improvement and staying focused on the task at hand.