INDIANAPOLIS — In a game that felt like a playoff thriller, the Indiana Fever stunned the WNBA universe by ending the New York Liberty’s unbeaten run, 102–88 in front of a raucous home crowd. But this was more than a victory – it was Caitlin Clark’s comeback, and she ensured the spotlight would shine on her.
Clark’s Comeback: A Star Reborn
After missing a few games with a left quad injury, Caitlin Clark came back with fire in her belly and a jumper that would not cease. She had a staggering 32 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds, just short of earning her first career triple-double. It was her third game with 30+ points, 5+ assists, and 5+ rebounds — more than any rookie in WNBA history.
What was making her night so special, though, was her shooting clinic from downtown. Clark sank 7 three-pointers, a career-best tie, three of which were bombs in a mere 33 seconds in the first quarter — for a crowd-igniting, tone-setting show.
“I didn’t come back to take it slow,” Clark said confidently after the game. “I felt strong and knew it was time to make my presence felt.
Fever’s Record Night from Deep
The Indiana Fever lit it up from deep, torching the nets with a franchise-best 17 three-pointers while shooting a scorching 48.6% from beyond the arc. It wasn’t only Clark — Kelsey Mitchell chipped in 22 points, and Lexie Hull added a much-needed 14 off the bench. The ball movement, confidence, and spacing were top-notch — the type of offensive flow Indiana fans have been waiting patiently for.
Liberty Stumble Despite Ionescu’s Heroics
On the flip side, Sabrina Ionescu poured in a season-high 34 points and Breanna Stewart chipped in with 24, but it wasn’t enough. The Liberty struggled from long range, hitting just 6-of-29 from three, and left 10 crucial points at the free-throw line. With key players Jonquel Jones and Leonie Fiebich sidelined, New York lacked their usual depth and poise, which proved costly.
Their 9–0 season start comes to an end here, but more significantly, they lose the initiative in the Commissioner’s Cup series with the Fever now having the head-to-head edge.
Key Stats:
Fever: 102 PTS | 17/35 3PT | 25 AST
Liberty: 88 PTS | 6/29 3PT | 10 missed FTs
Caitlin Clark: 32 PTS | 9 AST | 8 REB | 7 3PM
Sabrina Ionescu: 34 pts, 4 dimes, 3 triples – a fierce all-around effort.
Analysis: Why This Win Matters
This win wasn’t merely about breaking a winning streak — it was a declaration by the Fever that their rebuild is building real steam. With Clark back in the flow and the supporting cast contributing, Indiana now appears to be a Commissioner’s Cup contender and a team that no one wants to mess with in the playoffs.
More than that, this was about Caitlin Clark’s pull — both on and off the court. Ratings fell 55% when she was not playing, clear proof that she’s already one of the league’s most compelling stars. When she’s playing, people tune in.
Her poise, panache, and clutch gene provide Indiana with a leader who excels in high-stakes situations — and Friday night was no exception.
What’s Next?
Indiana Fever (5–5) play the Connecticut Sun in their next match, with Cup qualification at stake.
New York Liberty (9–1) hope to rebound against the Atlanta Dream and find their rhythm.
Final Word
Clark’s return energized Gainbridge Fieldhouse and redirected the WNBA narrative once more. The Fever is real, and the Liberty now knows — a new storm is brewing in the East.
