Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark recently earned a spot on the prestigious All-WNBA First Team, joining elite talents like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Alyssa Thomas. Following the announcement, Fever head coach Christie Sides celebrated Clark’s achievement, highlighting its significance. “Congratulations Caitlin Clark!! 5th Rookie EVER to receive this honor… proud of you!” Sides wrote. In a subsequent video shared by the Fever, Sides commended Clark further, stating, “She’s in the company of some of the greatest players in this league.”
Christie Sides, who took the helm as the Fever’s head coach in 2023, has witnessed a transformation with Clark on the roster. In her first year, the Fever struggled with a 13-27 record, but the arrival of Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, propelled the team to a balanced 20-20 record. This marked Indiana’s first 20-win season since 2015 and their return to the playoffs after an eight-year hiatus. Despite their progress, the Fever’s postseason run was cut short by the Connecticut Sun in the first round.
Clark’s rookie season stats were nothing short of impressive, with averages of 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a league-leading 8.4 assists per game. She quickly made her mark with a series of remarkable milestones, including setting the Fever’s record for the most assists in a season (337) and the most three-pointers made by a rookie (122). Clark also set a WNBA single-game record with 19 assists, while earning four WNBA Rookie of the Month honors and three Eastern Conference Player of the Week awards.
The budding chemistry between Clark and Sides has set the stage for the Fever’s promising future. As the team looks to build on the momentum of this season, Clark’s achievements and leadership will undoubtedly play a key role in Indiana’s pursuit of further success.
