Caitlin Clark's popularity is indisputable, WNBA commissioner suggets | Fox News

After a challenging rookie season filled with intense scrutiny, Caitlin Clark is ready to take the next step in her WNBA career. As the Indiana Fever prepare to open their 2025 season at home against the Chicago Sky on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET, Clark enters the year with a different mindset-one built on experience and confidence.

Clark made an immediate impact in her rookie campaign, earning WNBA Rookie of the Year honors and securing a spot on the All-WNBA First Team. She led the league in assists (8.4 per game) and three-pointers made (122) while averaging 19.2 points and 5.7 rebounds. Despite starting 1-8, the Fever bounced back to finish 20-20, securing their first playoff appearance since 2016 before falling to the Connecticut Sun in the first round.

Reflecting on her journey, Clark likened her first year in the WNBA to her early days as a freshman in high school and college-learning the ropes and proving herself in a new setting. “I know I belong. I know I can perform, and I can make my teammates better every single night. And that’s my job,” Clark said ahead of the season opener.

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A reinforced group of players

Under head coach Stephanie White, the Fever have strengthened their roster, retaining key players like Aliyah Boston while adding veterans such as DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard. With Clark leading the charge, Indiana hopes to build on last year’s progress and take the next step toward WNBA title contention.

The rivalry with the Chicago Sky has grown in intensity, fueled by the geographic closeness of the teams and the addition of rookie standouts Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso in Chicago. The Fever went 3-1 against the Sky last season, and Clark recognizes the significance of these matchups. “Rivalries are real, and that’s what makes sports so amazing,” she said. “There are certain teams that those games just mean a little bit more.”

With expectations high, Clark enters the season as an MVP contender, determined to lead the Fever to new heights. Fans will get their first glimpse of Indiana’s potential when they take the floor against the Sky on ABC, kicking off what promises to be an exciting WNBA season.