Rising Star Continues to Re-write Record Books as Indiana Inches Closer to Playoff Berth
In yet another historic performance, Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark added another accolade to her impressive rookie campaign by setting the WNBA record for the most 3-pointers made by a first-year player. Clark’s milestone came during Indiana’s thrilling 84-80 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Wednesday night, further solidifying her case as the frontrunner for the 2024 Rookie of the Year award.
Clark, the top overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, broke the record previously held by Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, who made 85 3-pointers in her rookie season in 2022. Clark surpassed that mark with her 86th long-range shot early in the first quarter and finished the game with a total of 88 3-pointers on the season after going 3-for-12 from beyond the arc.
Despite her shooting struggles from deep, Clark still contributed significantly to the Fever’s 15th win of the season. She finished with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists, one steal, and one block, though she also committed seven turnovers. Clark’s versatility and impact on the game were evident as she helped Indiana, which has been absent from the postseason since 2016, inch closer to a potential playoff spot.
Indiana held control for the majority of the game, establishing a 33-26 lead by the end of the first quarter and maintaining their advantage until the final whistle.With the score tied at 80-80 and just over two minutes remaining, Clark made a crucial drive to the basket to put the Fever ahead. Lexie Hull then sealed the victory with two clutch free throws, ensuring Indiana’s first win over Connecticut in four attempts this season.
Clark’s record-breaking performance is just the latest in a string of historic achievements this season. She has already set a WNBA rookie record for assists and recorded the league’s first-ever triple-double by a rookie. Despite leading the league in turnovers, her dynamic playmaking and scoring ability have made her one of the most exciting players to watch this season.
All five Fever starters scored in double figures, with Kelsey Mitchell leading the way with 23 points.The Fever displayed strong shooting from beyond the arc, connecting on 43.3% of their 3-point attempts, making 13 out of 30 shots. The game also drew a star-studded crowd, including Olympic gold medalists Simone Biles and Gabby Thomas, who were on hand to witness Clark’s latest historic feat.
As the Fever continue their push for a postseason berth, Caitlin Clark remains the centerpiece of their success, her record-breaking rookie season already etching her name into the annals of WNBA history. With just a few games left in the regular season, all eyes will be on Clark as she aims to shatter even more records and lead Indiana back to the playoffs.
