ARLINGTON, Texas — The highly anticipated pro debut of 2024 No. 1 WNBA pick Caitlin Clark did not disappoint as she showcased her talent with 21 points, despite the Indiana Fever’s narrow 79-76 defeat against the Dallas Wings at UT Arlington’s College Park Center on Friday evening.
In front of a sold-out crowd of 7,000, Clark’s performance was a focal point, drawing in newcomers eager to witness her transition to the professional stage. However, it was Dallas guard Arike Ogunbowale who stole the show, securing victory for the home team with a personal 7-0 run, including a game-winning step-back 3-pointer with just 3.0 seconds remaining.
The atmosphere in the Metroplex was electric, with multiple sporting events capturing the attention of fans. While the NBA’s Mavericks battled the LA Clippers downtown, and the NHL’s Stars fought in Las Vegas, many supporters made their way to Arlington, adorned with signs for Clark or sporting her No. 22 jersey.
Despite being on the visiting team, Clark received a thunderous cheer as she was introduced as part of the Fever’s starting lineup, alongside fellow former No. 1 pick Aliyah Boston.
For Clark, the setting was familiar yet different, as her fame soared from her Final Four run with the Hawkeyes just 25 miles away in the spring of 2023. Her professional debut started strong with two successful 3-pointers, captivating the crowd and setting the tone for her performance.
Scoring 11 of Indiana’s first 19 points, Clark displayed her shooting prowess, including a notable stepback 3-pointer against veteran Natasha Howard. Despite facing early foul trouble, Clark managed to contribute 16 points in the first half alone.
However, a scoreless third quarter and foul trouble forced Clark to the bench, limiting her impact on the game. She returned in the fourth quarter, adding another 3-pointer and assisting Boston on a pick-and-roll play.
With the game tied and less than 30 seconds remaining, Clark faced a pivotal moment, but her layup attempt was blocked by Howard. Despite her efforts, Indiana fell short, with Clark finishing the game with 21 points, along with 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 5 turnovers.
Rookies Jaelyn Brown and Arike Ogunbowale led the Wings with 21 and 19 points, respectively.
Looking ahead, the Fever are counting on Clark and their young core, including Boston and 2022 No. 2 pick NaLyssa Smith, to propel the franchise to its first postseason berth since 2016, which marked the final season of franchise legend Tamika Catchings before her retirement.
Indiana has one final tune-up game against the Atlanta Dream in Indianapolis before their regular-season opener on the road against the Connecticut Sun on May 14
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