Caitlin Clark delivers an impressive 32 points in her comeback game, marking the Indiana Fever's defeat of the New York Liberty, ending their undefeated season streak.
On Fire: Caitlin Clark Dazzles in record-breaking Fever Victory
In an electrifying performance, rookie sensation Caitlin Clark torched the New York Liberty with a season-best 32 points, including an equal career-high seven three-pointers, as the Indiana Fever triumphed 102-88 on Saturday. This was Clark's long-awaited return to the court after a three-week absence due to a left quad injury.
Showcasing her incredible potential, Clark scored an impressive 25 points in the first half alone. Her impressive 32 points in this game are the second-highest she has ever posted in a WNBA matchup, just three points shy of her career-best 35 points against the Dallas Wings in September 2024[2]. Tying her career-high seven threes also came against the Washington Mystics in June 2024[4].
"My most I've ever made in a game was 12, that was in high school!" Clark said after the game. "That's what they gave up tonight, is they were going to let us shoot threes."
The Fever, who struggled in Clark's absence with a 2-3 stretch, unleashed an unprecedented force with her return, setting a franchise-record 17 threes from 35 attempts (48.6%)[1]. Kelsey Mitchell capitalized with 22 points, while Lexie Hull, Aliyah Boston and Sydney Colson all notched double-digit figures.
The defeat halts New York’s perfect start to the season, denying them the distinction of joining an elite group of four teams in WNBA history to begin a season with 10 consecutive victories[4]. Despite the 34 points by Sabrina Ionescu and 24 points from Breanna Stewart, the Liberty could not seal the deal.
New York took control early with an 11-point lead, but Clark stole the limelight in the final minutes of the first quarter, securing a three-point play and draining three consecutive long-range shots to tie the game[3]. The Fever maintained their momentum throughout the encounter, sealing the victory with a mighty 19-0 run in the third quarter, ensuring X was jumped with joy by LeBron James, who welcomed Clark’s return[3].
Fever head coach Stephanie White could not help but be impressed with Clark’s performance, expressing her expectations for such effort from the young star. "Don't we always expect that kind of game from Caitlin?" she questioned.
[1] - Indiana Fever, Threes Made in a Game Records[2] - Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark Career Stats[3] - LeBron James X Post[4] - Caitlin Clark Career High Three-Pointers & Team Records
In the thrilling 102-88 victory, Caitlin Clark, the rookie sensation of the Indiana Fever, displayed her basketball prowess with a season-best 32 points and a career-tying seven three-pointers, showcasing her potential in the WNBA. Despite the New York Liberty's early lead, Clark's exceptional performance turned the game around, leading the Fever to set a franchise-record in three-pointers made.
