Caitlin Clark Returns, but Fever Fall Hard to Dominant Valkyries Squad
Caitlin Clark’s long-anticipated return to the WNBA floor wasn’t quite the storybook comeback fans had envisioned. The Indiana Fever star, back in action after missing four games due to a groin injury, faced off against the Golden State Valkyries in what turned out to be a lopsided 80-61 defeat for Indiana. Though her return had been hyped all week — and rightfully so — it quickly became clear that Clark, still finding her rhythm, couldn’t carry the Fever through this tough matchup.
Playing only 25 minutes, well below her season average of 33, Clark managed 10 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds. Her shooting, however, told the story of a rusty return — 4-of-12 from the field with little momentum to build on. Part of the limited playtime may have stemmed from how the game progressed; by the time the fourth quarter rolled around, Golden State had surged ahead with a commanding lead, making it unnecessary — and perhaps unwise — to keep Clark on the court any longer.
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The Fever as a whole struggled to find any rhythm offensively. Kelsey Mitchell, who typically serves as a scoring punch alongside Clark, went cold — just 3-of-13 from the floor. As a team, Indiana managed a bleak 30.9% shooting percentage, going 21-for-68. Simply put, it was one of those nights where nothing seemed to click.
On the other side of the court, the Valkyries capitalized on nearly every opportunity. Veronica Burton stood out with a game-high 21 points, shooting an impressive 5-of-6 from beyond the arc while also contributing 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Kayla Thornton also chipped in 18 points, despite an inefficient shooting night, thanks to her aggression from deep and at the free throw line. Their collective effort, especially in the second quarter where Golden State outscored Indiana 20-9, blew the game open.
While the Valkyries weren’t exactly lights-out either — shooting just 37.1% as a team — their ability to convert during key stretches and limit Indiana’s offensive opportunities proved more than enough. By the fourth quarter, the game had slipped beyond reach.
Clark’s return was supposed to be a spark. Instead, it became a reminder of the work still ahead for this Fever team. With a 9-10 record and another tough opponent in the Atlanta Dream coming up, Indiana must quickly regroup. Clark will undoubtedly regain her form — her talent and drive aren’t in question. But Wednesday’s game showed us just how crucial every piece of the puzzle is for this young Fever squad to succeed.
The Valkyries, now riding high again, sent a clear message: they’re a force to be reckoned with. As for Clark and the Fever — the journey continues.
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