Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but for all the NBA’s efforts, it can’t fully replicate Stephen Curry’s unique style. Yet, Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever has come remarkably close to drawing comparisons. A recent analysis showed how the Fever have adapted plays from the Golden State Warriors—specifically those designed for Curry—to suit Clark’s skill set. It’s no surprise to see Clark likened to Curry; both have revolutionized their respective sports and drawn new fans to their leagues. Moreover, they possess the uncanny ability to make the most difficult shots seem effortless. With Clark’s smooth offensive game, it makes sense for the Fever to adopt some of the same plays that Curry has mastered in the NBA.
Steph Noh of *The Sporting News* recently broke down numerous plays and sequences that demonstrate how similar Clark’s approach is to Curry’s. One such example is the “stagger twirl set.” In this play, Curry, along with another player, sets an off-ball screen to create space for Klay Thompson, while a screener on the wing creates an open shot for Curry. The twist in the twirl stagger lies in Thompson veering out of the play, leading the two shooters to stretch the defense and leaving Curry wide open for a three-pointer. Although the Fever may not have an abundance of elite shooters like the Warriors, they use similar screens to disrupt defenses and open up space for Clark.
Another play the Fever have adopted from the Warriors’ repertoire is the “Gut Chicago” set. This set demands both energy and finesse, requiring the scorer to weave through screens in the middle of the floor, known as the “gut,” before receiving a handoff shot. It involves two screens—an off-ball screen near the nail followed by an on-ball screen from the player handing off the ball. While neither the stagger twirl nor the Gut Chicago sets were designed exclusively for Curry or Clark, both players embody the skills needed to execute them effectively, showcasing their prowess as dynamic playmakers on the court.
