Caitlin Clark is redefining what it means to be a star—on and off the court. As she steps into the spotlight in Indianapolis, she’s not just making plays; she’s making an impact. And with Peyton Manning by her side, her influence is only beginning to take shape.

At the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital’s 17th Celebration of Caring Gala, Clark stood alongside the Colts’ legend, proving that true influence extends beyond the game. As Logo Bomb recently posted on X, “Caitlin Clark attended the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital 17th Celebration of Caring Gala at Gainbridge.” But this wasn’t just a one-time appearance—it was another step in her growing bond with Manning and the Indianapolis community.

Just a month prior, the two sports icons teamed up for a lighthearted commercial promoting St. Vincent Hospital. The ad, which aired locally, showcased Clark and Manning’s comedic timing. Manning, in classic fashion, attempted surgery while Clark watched in amused disbelief—only for the punchline to reveal he was stitching up a teddy bear, not a human heart. The message was clear: while Manning and Clark might be legends in their respective sports, the actual heroes are the doctors at St. Vincent’s.

Clark’s commitment to making an impact in Indianapolis started well before the gala. Back in November 2024, she visited the hospital’s NICU alongside Indiana Fever assistant coach Tully Bevilaqua, spending time with families and offering words of encouragement. A YouTube video recapping her visit highlighted how she “brought a sense of comfort and hope” to parents and siblings of premature babies. Speaking to WRTV, Clark expressed her intention to make these hospital visits a regular occurrence, reinforcing her dedication to the city beyond just basketball.

Her connection to Indianapolis, however, runs even deeper. “I actually grew up a Peyton Manning fan,” Clark said in August 2024. “I had this pink Peyton Manning Colts jersey, so it’s kind of funny how everything kind of comes full circle.” That full-circle moment now includes working alongside her childhood hero, building a legacy that echoes his own. Manning’s influence on Indiana sports is undeniable.

From quarterback to court General: How Peyton Manning is helping Caitlin Clark make Indiana her own

As sports analyst Jason Whitlock once put it, “When Peyton Manning was an Indianapolis Colt, he turned Indiana from a basketball state into a football state. Now with Caitlin Clark on the Fever, I think she will turn Indiana into a women’s basketball mecca.” Manning, for his part, has been more than just a supporter—he’s actively helping Clark acclimate to life in Indianapolis. In December 2024, he invited her to the premiere of Full Court Press, the ESPN+ docuseries produced by his Omaha Productions that followed Clark and other women’s basketball stars.

In May, however, he extended any support he could to Clark, when she joined the fever, “She’s going to love Indianapolis,” Manning said. “I gave her all my contacts at the airport, St. Elmo’s, some behind-the-ropes things here in Indianapolis. It’s a great place for her to play. I’m looking forward to watching her.”

Beyond his football career, Manning has long been a pillar of philanthropy in Indiana. The Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, originally named St. Vincent Children’s Hospital before its renaming in 2007, has benefited from his relentless advocacy and fundraising efforts. Over the years, the hospital has provided critical care for children in need of emergency treatment, orthopedic procedures, and blood disease management.

Manning’s 17th Celebration of Caring Gala this February raised more than $1.6 million to continue supporting these essential services. His involvement extends beyond financial contributions; he frequently visits young patients, bringing them moments of joy in challenging times.

On February 20, Clark joined that mission firsthand. Dressed in an elegant all-white suit, she attended the gala as a chief guest, standing alongside Manning in support of the hospital’s work. Manning later took to Instagram to publicly thank Clark for her involvement, a moment that underscored their growing bond. Indianapolis has embraced Clark not just as an elite basketball talent but as a figure who, like Manning, understands the power of community.

For Clark, basketball will always be home, but the impact she’s making off the court might be just as significant. Like Manning before her, she’s becoming more than just an athlete—she’s a symbol of hope, leadership, and change. And if her early days in Indiana are any indication, this is only the beginning.