Caitlin Clark made a triumphant return from injury, scoring 32 points to lead the Indiana Fever to a 102-88 victory over the previously undefeated New York Liberty on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The Fever's win handed the reigning WNBA champions their first loss of the season, improving Indiana's record to 5-5.
Clark, who had missed five games due to a quad strain sustained against the same Liberty team three weeks prior, showed no signs of rust. She finished the game with 32 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, tying her career-high with seven 3-pointers. Her performance was particularly notable in the first half, where she scored 25 points, the most she has ever scored in any half in her career. During one stretch in the first half, Clark hit three consecutive 3-pointers in just 38 seconds, reminiscent of Reggie Miller, igniting the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
The game was a back-and-forth affair with multiple lead changes. The Liberty initially jumped out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter, but Clark led the Fever back with a barrage of 3-pointers. The Fever then took the lead in the second quarter, entering halftime with a 53-50 advantage.
New York started the second half strong, scoring the first nine points to regain the lead. However, the Fever responded with a dominant 19-0 run, taking control of the game for good. Although the Liberty fought back to within three points in the fourth quarter, the Fever closed out the game with strong performances from Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston. Mitchell contributed 22 points, while Boston recorded a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds, also adding six assists. Lexie Hull and Sydney Colson also chipped in with 14 and 10 points, respectively.
Clark's return was not just a personal triumph but also a historic achievement. She reached 850 career points in her 45th game, becoming the fourth-fastest player in WNBA history to reach that mark. Only Cynthia Cooper-Dyke (38 games), Seimone Augustus (39 games), and Arike Ogunbowale (44 games) reached the milestone faster.
Fever coach Stephanie White expressed that Clark is a high usage player that finds everybody else and puts them in positions to be successful. The coach also highlighted the team's resilience and adaptability during Clark's absence, noting the leadership from various players like Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham.
The Fever's victory over the Liberty has significant implications for the WNBA season. It not only halted New York's undefeated start but also kept Indiana in contention for the Eastern Conference Commissioner's Cup title. The Fever needed the win to stay alive in the competition, with New York and Atlanta also vying for the title.
Clark's performance sent a clear message to the WNBA: a healthy Indiana Fever team is a force to be reckoned with. The team showcased its depth and talent, with five players scoring in double figures. The win provided a significant confidence boost as they prepared to face the Connecticut Sun in their next game.
