Caitlin Clark made WNBA history on Sunday as she led the Indiana Fever to a 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm. In the process, the rookie star set the record for the most assists by a rookie in a single season, recording her 226th assist. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 225 assists set by Ticha Penicheiro in 1998, which was accomplished in 30 games. Clark broke the record in her 28th game and has 12 games remaining in the season to further extend this milestone. She ended the game with a total of nine assists, bringing her season total to 232.
Clark’s record-breaking assist came during an impressive play where she made a long pass to Kelsey Mitchell, who completed the play with a layup, energizing the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Penicheiro expressed her excitement over the record being broken, stating that records are meant to be surpassed and noting Clark’s considerable talent.
Reflecting on the achievement, Clark acknowledged Penicheiro’s influence and support throughout her career, expressing gratitude for the legacy she has created in women’s basketball.
The Fever began the game slowly, tying their season-low with just 13 points in the first quarter. However, they found their rhythm in the second quarter, closing the half on a 12-5 run to take a one-point lead, despite Clark struggling with her shooting from beyond the arc in the first half.
After halftime, Indiana’s offense surged, particularly in the fourth quarter where they outscored the Storm 33-17. The Fever’s shooting was impressive, hitting eight 3-pointers in nine attempts during this period. Lexie Hull contributed significantly, achieving a career-high with six 3-pointers.
This victory marked Indiana’s first win against Seattle this season, after losing the previous three encounters. The 17-point margin of victory is the largest for the Fever this year.
In addition to her assists, Clark finished the game with 23 points, five rebounds, two blocks, one steal, and five turnovers. This marks her third consecutive game scoring at least 20 points, shooting 9-for-19 from the field and 3-for-10 from three-point range, with all her successful attempts from downtown occurring in the second half.