Caitlin Clark's return to the Indiana Fever after a five-game absence due to a strained quadriceps was nothing short of spectacular, yet some are hesitant to give her full credit. In a commanding performance against the previously undefeated New York Liberty on Saturday, Clark led her team to a 102-88 victory, showcasing her exceptional talent and silencing any doubts about her readiness. She exploded for 32 points, tying her career-high with seven 3-pointers, along with nine assists and eight rebounds.

Clark's impact was immediate. After the Liberty jumped out to an early lead, Clark ignited a stunning comeback, single-handedly tying the game with three consecutive three-pointers in just 38 seconds. These weren't just any shots; they were launched from 33 feet, 27 feet, and 31 feet, demonstrating her incredible range and confidence. This electrifying sequence not only energized the Fever but also shifted the momentum of the game entirely. Fever head coach Stephanie White summed it up perfectly saying "Wow".

The Fever, with Clark back in the lineup, set a franchise record with 17 three-pointers made in the game, shooting an impressive 48.6% from beyond the arc. This offensive explosion highlighted Clark's ability to create opportunities for her teammates, as her presence on the court forced the Liberty's defense to stretch, opening up lanes and creating space for others to score. Kelsey Mitchell contributed 22 points, while Aliyah Boston added 10 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing the team's balanced attack.

Despite Clark's stellar performance, some have pointed to the Liberty's missing players, Jonquel Jones and Leonie Fiebich, as a reason to temper expectations. While it's true that the Liberty were not at full strength, it's important to recognize that every team faces injuries and absences throughout the season. The fact remains that Clark and the Fever capitalized on the opportunity and delivered a decisive victory against a top-tier opponent.

Moreover, this win holds significant importance for the Indiana Fever. It places them at the top of the Eastern Conference standings in Commissioner's Cup play and boosts their chances of reaching the in-season championship. The team's performance with Clark on the court is statistically superior; their offensive rating soars when she plays, highlighting her crucial role in their success.

Clark herself expressed her excitement to be back on the court, stating that she felt good physically, with only brief periods of fatigue. Her ability to shake off any rust after missing five games speaks volumes about her dedication and work ethic. She also acknowledged the Liberty's defensive strategy, noting that they were willing to allow the Fever to shoot threes, which Indiana exploited to their advantage.

While a social media account criticized Clark's body language after a missed three-pointer, many fans and analysts defended her, pointing out that such displays of frustration are common among competitive athletes. Others were quick to draw comparisons to similar reactions from NBA stars like Stephen Curry and LeBron James, emphasizing that passion and competitiveness are inherent aspects of the game.

Ultimately, Caitlin Clark's 32-point return was a testament to her skill, resilience, and leadership. It was a performance that not only secured a crucial win for the Indiana Fever but also reaffirmed her status as a rising star in the WNBA. While some may attempt to diminish her achievements, the numbers speak for themselves: Clark's presence elevates her team, and her performance against the Liberty was a clear indication of her potential to lead the Fever to greater heights. The victory was a team effort, showcasing the Fever's potential, but Clark undoubtedly sparked the fire.