As the WNBA season approaches, the spotlight on Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever continues to intensify. While Clark embraces the mounting expectations, some of her teammates are also setting ambitious goals, leading to interesting dynamics within the team and sparking conversations in the wider WNBA community.
Recently, veteran forward Natasha Howard openly declared her aspiration to win the MVP award and Defensive Player of the Year. While such ambition is admirable, some analysts and fans have questioned the self-awareness of her statement, considering Clark's arrival and the team's focus on building around her. Ross Gold, from the Good Follow podcast, pointed out that the Fever are "first and foremost being built around Caitlin Clark," suggesting that Howard's MVP aspirations might be somewhat misaligned with the team's current trajectory.
Howard, a WNBA champion and former Defensive Player of the Year, signed with the Fever to provide veteran leadership and support to coach Stephanie White. While her experience and skills are undoubtedly valuable, some believe that her focus should be on mentoring Clark and contributing to the team's overall success rather than chasing individual accolades.
Despite the external chatter, Howard has been vocal in her praise for Clark, noting her leadership qualities and comparing her to WNBA legends. "I see it already in practice. Like, she's talking, talking to us in the huddles and stuff," Howard said, highlighting Clark's immediate impact on the team. Clark's agent, Erin Kane, also emphasized Clark's unique impact and the excitement and investment she is creating.
Meanwhile, Clark has acknowledged and embraced the pressure that comes with her status. "Somehow it feels like the pressure is always taken to another level and another level," Clark said. "But I always remind myself, it's not a moment I haven't been in before. I understand the expectations, I understand the pressure, and … I wouldn't want that any other way. I like to embrace that". She recognizes that there will be both great and challenging nights, and her focus remains on how she responds to them.
The Indiana Fever have undergone significant changes in the off-season, with a new head coach and several new teammates joining Clark. The team is working to build chemistry and develop a winning strategy as they prepare for the season opener against Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky. Clark's teammates have already noticed her competitive spirit, even in off-court activities.
As the season draws near, the WNBA community is closely watching how these dynamics play out within the Indiana Fever. While individual goals are important, the ultimate focus will be on whether the team can come together and achieve collective success. The interplay between Clark's star power and the contributions of her veteran teammates, like Howard, will be a key factor in determining the Fever's fate this season.
