Alongside Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese, Indiana Fever’s standout rookie Caitlin Clark has captivated millions of WNBA fans. However, the increased attention has also brought a surge of critics, despite the Fever’s late-season playoff push. Their 100-93 victory over the struggling Dallas Wings on Sunday put the Fever above .500 for the first time in five years, securing the sixth seed. Caitlin Clark’s record-shattering season has even prompted Shannon Sharpe to defend her against the growing number of detractors.
On a recent episode of his *Nightcap* podcast, legendary tight end Shannon Sharpe, joined by Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, spoke about the numerous flagrant fouls and non-basketball plays targeting Caitlin Clark this season. Sharpe remarked on Clark’s dominance, saying, “She’s busting y’all ass. She’s doing her thing… She’s sharp on both sides, cutting ass left and right… Don’t be resentful of it. Embrace it.”
The Indiana Fever are experiencing a remarkable resurgence, boasting a winning record for the first time since 2019. Five years ago, the team began the season 4-3 but ended with a disappointing 13-21 record—a mark they’ve already surpassed this year. Even more impressive, the Fever started the 2024 season with a dismal 1-8 record.
Since the WNBA resumed post-Olympics, the Fever have been on fire, winning six of their last seven games, including victories over teams already locked into the playoffs. With just three playoff spots remaining as of Thursday, the Fever are determined to secure their sixth-place position. Caitlin Clark, who has shattered WNBA records throughout the season, might achieve her most significant milestone yet by leading the Fever to the playoffs as a rookie.
With nine more home games on the horizon, the Fever have a strong chance of solidifying their playoff bid. Beyond Clark’s contributions, Kelsey Mitchell has been playing exceptional basketball, scoring over 20 points in seven consecutive games and breaking the Fever’s franchise record. In their recent victory over the Dallas Wings, Mitchell set a season-high with 36 points, while Clark added a double-double with 28 points and 12 assists.
Despite her incredible season, Clark’s success has also brought out the haters, a sign of the league adjusting to the rise of a truly generational talent in the social media era. Even Wings forward Satou Sabally noted that playing in their home arena felt like an away game due to the overwhelming presence of Clark fans. To add insult to injury for the haters, Clark recently set a Fever rookie record with 617 points, surpassing Tamika Catchings.
