A commemoration of Caitlin Clark’s meteoric career at Iowa and evaluation of the start of her WNBA rookie season.
A commemoration of Caitlin Clark’s meteoric career at Iowa and evaluation of the start of her WNBA rookie season.
CHICAGO — It might’ve been a Barbie World, but it was Caitlin’s House.
In the fourth and final matchup between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese — and the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky — there was no question who the standout player was in a pink-festooned Wintrust Arena for “Barbie Night.”
Clark delivered a season-high 31 points and 12 assists in a resounding 100-81 victory in a packed arena on Friday night. Meanwhile, Reese struggled to find her rhythm, finishing with 10 points and 11 rebounds.
The Fever are on the rise, the Sky are on the decline, and the race for Rookie of the Year is settled. The rivalry between Clark and Reese, born in college, has been a welcomed addition to the WNBA, but for this award, the outcome is clear.
moving up 📈
go inside the locker room after we moved into 6th place in the playoff standings with our win at Chicago. pic.twitter.com/GM3h889wLB
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) August 31, 2024
Before the game, both Clark and Reese downplayed the significance of the award.
“We both have the same answer, we don’t wake up and think about individual awards,” Clark said. “Both of our teams are competing for playoff spots, and that’s our main focus.”
“I think you guys have made it a big thing,” Reese added.
Clark’s stellar performance on Friday showcased her transition from college success to the WNBA. She exudes confidence and skill, silencing critics who doubted her ability to excel in the league.
“I feel like we’re confident, but that’s any team in this league when you’re able to stack some wins,” Clark remarked. “That’s everything, right?”
Clark’s remarkable stats from the game underscore her impact on the court, highlighting her potential as a rising star in the WNBA.
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Clark’s leadership and performance propelled the Fever to victory as they solidified their standing in the playoff race, while the Sky struggled to find their footing.
Amidst the competitive game, Reece’s offensive limitations became apparent, emphasizing the challenges the Sky faced in securing a playoff spot.
As the season progresses, both teams face unique obstacles and opportunities to define their playoff journey.
(Illustration: Eamonn Dalton / The Athletic; Photos of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark: Dylan Goodman / NBAE via Getty Images, Barry Gossage / NBAE via Getty Images)
