In a thrilling showdown between WNBA rookies, Caitlin Clark led the Indiana Fever to a historic 102-83 victory over the Dallas Wings at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This matchup marked the first professional encounter between the top two draft picks, Clark and Paige Bueckers, and the game did not disappoint.
The Fever set a franchise record by scoring 64 points in the first half, breaking away with a dominant 36-15 run in the second quarter. Clark, the 2024 No. 1 pick, dished out a remarkable 13 assists, a new Fever record for assists in a regulation game, while also contributing 14 points despite facing challenges with her shooting. This performance also marked Clark’s return to form after recovering from injuries that had sidelined her earlier in the season.
Clark’s impactful play included five steals and a highlight-reel moment where she blocked a layup attempt and quickly assisted a teammate with a long pass. Although she struggled with her shooting, Clark emphasized the importance of playmaking and maintaining team balance, showcasing her versatility on the court.
On the opposing side, Bueckers, the 2025 No. 1 pick, led all scorers with 21 points. She continued her impressive streak in the league, but turnovers were a concern for her as she adjusted to the intensity of professional play. The Wings faced difficulties with their shooting and defensive transitions, particularly during the Fever’s explosive second quarter.
Indiana shot a commendable 52% for the game and capitalized on Dallas’s 18 turnovers to score 23 points in transition. Five Fever players scored in double figures, with Kelsey Mitchell, Natasha Howard, and Aliyah Boston combining for a total of 55 points.
The Fever coach, Stephanie White, praised her team’s ability to move the ball effectively and play with defensive intensity, which has been critical in their recent games. Following a challenging outing where they scored just 61 points, the Fever have rebounded strongly, scoring 201 points across their last two matches.
Despite the Wings struggling with their shooting and the return of star player Arike Ogunbowale, who missed previous games due to injury, Bueckers highlighted Ogunbowale’s leadership and effort on the court, even on a tough night shooting.
This victory represents a significant moment for Clark and the Fever, reinforcing their growing cohesion and performance as they strive to establish a strong identity heading into the remainder of the season. The future looks promising for both rookies and their respective teams as they adjust and grow in the league.