After nearly a year of playing high-level basketball under the brightest spotlights and carrying massive expectations with both Iowa and Indiana, Caitlin Clark knew she needed a break. She was one of the few superstars who chose to skip the inaugural season of Unrivaled, using the offseason to finally recharge after a grueling stretch of nonstop action. During the off-season, Clark could be seen attending volleyball matches, NBA games, playing golf, and showing up at award shows but never on the court! . But with WNBA training camps kicking off on April 27th, fans were finally treated to the sight they had been waiting for– Caitlin Clark hooping on the court! And this time, she also opened up about her decision to take that much-needed break!

Caitlin Clark absolutely took the WNBA by storm last season. She put up impressive numbers, averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game while shooting 41% from the field, all while winning Rookie of the Year honors. And let’s not forget — before that, she broke the NCAA all-time scoring record during her senior year at Iowa, where she averaged a jaw-dropping 31 points per game. It was a grueling year filled with historic achievements, and honestly, she earned every bit of the break.

“I love talking to you guys (reporters) all the time, but there was a point where the line had to be drawn,” Caitlin Clark said with a smile as she addressed the media. “I’m glad to see you all back here. We had a great year, but eventually getting away from that was healthy for me.” 

While Caitlin Clark absolutely earned her offseason break, the Indiana Fever were busy working behind the scenes to make sure she had more support this year. They brought in veterans like DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard to help protect her and ease some of the pressure.

Last season, it took Clark a bit of time to adjust to the physicality of the WNBA — she was getting double- and even triple-teamed almost every possession, and that definitely takes a toll on the body. “I’m ready to compete again, so I’m excited,” Clark told reporters at her press conference. She even looks noticeably stronger heading into this season–it looks like she has put on some muscle, and fans are loving her new look. Everything is lining up for a potential deep playoff run for the Fever, and with their season opener against the Chicago Sky right around the corner, Clark had a few thoughts to share. Let’s dive into what she had to say!

Caitlin Clark sends a strong message ahead of their season opener

The Indiana Fever’s offseason was nothing short of action-packed. It all started with the hiring of a new head coach, Stephanie White, signaling a fresh direction for the franchise. But they didn’t stop there. Indiana went big in free agency too, bringing in veterans like DeWanna Bonner, Sophie Cunningham, Natasha Howard, Brianna Turner, and Sydney Colson. The goal was clear — surround their core of Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston with experienced talent.

As the new WNBA season approaches, all eyes are locked on the season opener between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky. Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, last season’s top Rookie of the Year finalists, have completely changed the visibility and viewership of women’s basketball. Their clash on May 17 is expected to draw huge numbers once again. And when it comes to Clark, she’s feeling confident about her squad!

“I think that we play basketball the right way,” Clark said. “We love playing in front of our fans. We’re building a championship-winning team. We’re excited about it, we’re excited about all the pieces we’ve added, a great coaching staff, and we’re fired up and working hard. I think we play basketball the right way and give our fans a lot to cheer about. Also, we love our teammates and work really hard.”

How the Indiana Fever perform this season is definitely going to be one of the biggest storylines to follow. Can Caitlin Clark lead them to their first championship since 2012? Only time will tell. For now, it’s all hands on deck as the Fever gear up for the upcoming season with full focus and determination. Stay tuned for more updates!