Although Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever suffered their first loss since the WNBA season resumed after the Olympics, the rookie guard still managed to capture the spotlight with an incredible display of skill.
With the Minnesota Lynx holding a 10-point lead midway through the fourth quarter, Clark received the inbounds pass and, with remarkable composure, launched a stunning three-quarter court bullet pass to a wide-open Lexie Hull under the basket. The play cut the lead to eight points and drew comparisons to LeBron James’ iconic long passes to Dwyane Wade during their time together on the Miami Heat.
Despite Clark’s efforts, the Fever ultimately fell 90-80 to the Lynx on a night that was especially significant for Clark. The game coincided with the retirement of Maya Moore’s jersey, a moment that held deep personal meaning for Clark, who had long admired Moore as her childhood hero.
“She was the person for me, honestly,” Clark said, reflecting on Moore’s influence. “I remember that Lynx team better than anybody. As a young girl, they were the closest WNBA team to me growing up, so it’s kind of who you root for. But they were also really good, so they were easy to root for.”
Clark delivered an impressive performance with 23 points on 8-of-18 shooting and eight assists. However, she was overshadowed by Lynx star Napheesa Collier, who led all scorers with 31 points, helping Minnesota, one of the league’s top teams, secure the victory.
Caitlin Clark cross court DIME to Lexie Hull pic.twitter.com/l1f10i3nby
— Clark Report (@CClarkReport) August 25, 2024
The game also provided Clark with the opportunity to connect with Moore, one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history. Moore’s illustrious career with the Lynx included four WNBA championships and a 2014 MVP award, but it’s her off-court contributions that have left a lasting impression on Clark.
“Everything she does for the world is way cooler than what she did on the basketball court,” Clark said, praising Moore’s impact beyond the game. “She’s just such a great individual, a great person, and I know she finds even more joy and satisfaction in all the other things that she’s done off the court.”
The night may have ended in a loss for the Fever, but Clark’s exceptional play and heartfelt tribute to her idol made it a memorable game nonetheless.
