Their best season in 8 years, but not enough to make the second round of the playoffs. Despite valiant efforts from the hyped rookie, Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever failed to overcome tough competition from the Carrington-led Sun. What else would you expect? The Fever got eliminated 2-0. Since then, the Rookie of the Year hasn’t had much to say about her playoff ending or the season—but not anymore.

On October 2nd, Caitlin Clark took to her official account and penned a heartfelt note to her 2.9 million Instagram followers. “Year one ✅ — thank you to the many people who have supported me as I’ve been able to live my childhood dream. I’m filled with gratitude as I reflect on this past year of my life. See you all in year two,” she wrote, alongside a couple of pictures.

And that’s how Clark signed off for the offseason. The 2024 All-Star met the hype and more, leading the Fever to their first playoff campaign since 2016. Although her debut season had a rough start, Clark and company took the WNBA by storm ever since they returned from a month-long WNBA break.

While Clark initiated her record-breaking streak, the Fever went on to add more wins along the way — 8 of their first 10 post-Olympic break. However, it wasn’t enough to earn the Fever a championship trophy this season. But one thing is for sure—Clark left an indelible mark on the hearts of spectators.

So how could her 2.9 million Instagram family not flood the comment section?

As Clark revealed that she’s taking a long break this offseason, the WNBA dove into the comments to say a final goodbye. How could those who supported her stay silent? Both Aliyah Boston and Kate Martin showered her with love within minutes of Clark’s post. “You deserve it all, ready for more with you,” shared Aliyah Boston, the other half of the Fever’s ‘double-double’ duo.

Clark was undeniably a catalyst in the Fever’s progress over the year. The four-time WNBA Rookie of the Month averaged 19.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Even in the playoffs, Clark had a strong showing. So beaming with pride was her Iowa teammate. “Love you and so proud of you,” wrote Gabby Marshall. According to StatMamba, Clark is the only rookie in basketball history alongside Michael Jordan to average 18 points, five rebounds, and two steals in their playoff debut.

So another of the Iowa trio, common name under her best friends’ posts and vice versa, couldn’t help but chime in. “So proud of you,” added Kate Martin. In her 40-game regular season, Clark was a playmaker, setting all-time WNBA records for most assists (337) and single-game assists (19). “Absolutely legendary rookie season. Keep it up, Caitlin Clark. Well-deserved break,” penned Joggersfit.

Clark’s excellence isn’t limited to helping teammates with assists—she nailed it all. In WNBA history, she’s the first-ever rookie to record a triple-double, not once but twice. “Easily the best rookie of all time,” declared a fan. The league’s leader in assist average is also the first player to record 20+ points, 5+ rebounds, and 15+ assists in a single game. All this makes Clark’s break well-deserved at the moment.