Simone Biles and Gabby Thomas, two Olympic champions fresh off their remarkable performances at the Paris 2024 Games, made a special visit to surprise basketball star Caitlin Clark and her Indiana Fever team in August. Both athletes, bringing with them a combined total of six gold medals from Paris, appeared in the Fever’s locker room after their thrilling 84-80 victory over the Connecticut Sun. The moment was a unique show of support among top-tier athletes across different sports.
Gabby Thomas, who had an incredible track season in Paris, winning three medals, including the gold in the women’s 200 meters, recounted the surprise moment. “We were hiding just outside the locker room, waiting for the team to come in,” Thomas shared. “The whole team was amazed, and Caitlin was completely shocked. It’s wonderful to experience the camaraderie and enthusiasm athletes share across different sports,” she said, adding that the energy in the room was unforgettable.
Simone Biles, widely celebrated for her historic achievements in gymnastics, attended her first-ever WNBA game that night. Following her Paris triumph, where she earned three golds and a silver, Biles enjoyed the game with great enthusiasm. After the event, she expressed her excitement on social media, saying, “EVERYONE WATCHES WOMEN’S SPORTS. So happy to support! This is just the first of many WNBA games for me.”
This surprise visit seemed to inspire the Indiana Fever, who later advanced to the WNBA playoffs for the first time in six years. Caitlin Clark, whose incredible debut season earned her the title of WNBA Rookie of the Year, was visibly moved by the encouragement from her fellow athletes. It was a remarkable moment that highlighted the bond shared among elite athletes and showcased the mutual respect across different fields of play.
Biles and Thomas’s visit is a reminder of how champions continue to support one another, strengthening the spirit of unity in women’s sports. This unexpected meeting not only brought joy to the Fever team but also emphasized the growing visibility and appreciation for women’s sports among athletes and fans alike.
