Caitlin Clark (Photo By Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Caitlin Clark didn’t just return to Iowa City, she made an entrance. As the Indiana Fever star walked into Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Sunday afternoon, all eyes were on her. Clad in a sleek all-gray Nike outfit, Clark looked sharp and ready to get back on the court in front of the fans who’ve supported her every step of the way.
Her return to her old stomping grounds wasn’t just about basketball. It was about connection, energy, and the bond she’s built with the Iowa faithful. “They’re the biggest Indiana Fever fans now,” Clark told reporters ahead of tipoff. “They want to meet all of my teammates. They want to cheer for my teammates.”
She didn’t hold back when talking about the loyalty of Hawkeye fans, saying, “They’re going to have your backs. They want to cheer for you. They want to buy your jersey.”
Back In Iowa, And In Style
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (Photo By Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images)
Before the first whistle blew, Clark already stole the spotlight. Her polished look quickly made waves on social media, drawing praise for both her style and presence. The WNBA’s official account captured the moment on X, formerly Twitter, writing, “Caitlin Clark has arrived The 2024 WNBA ROTY is back at her old stomping grounds for her preseason debut vs. the Brazil National Team!”
Fans lined up early outside the arena, hoping to catch a glimpse of Clark and maybe grab a high-five or autograph. She made sure to keep the spotlight shared, emphasizing her team’s role. “That’s what I appreciate about them the most,” she said. “They want to cheer, not only for myself, but everybody else on this team. They have so much fun watching us.”
Clark, who has been managing a minor injury, expressed hope to suit up for Sunday’s game against Brazil’s national team. Tipoff was set for 4 p.m. ET, with the matchup airing nationally on ESPN.
Whether she played or not, Clark already made her presence felt. Her return to Iowa wasn’t just a homecoming- it was a celebration of how far she’s come and how much she still brings to the game, both on and off the court.
As the Fever prepare for the season ahead, it’s clear Caitlin Clark hasn’t just brought her game to the WNBA. She’s brought the full show.