Indiana Fever General Manager Lin Dunn has lauded Caitlin Clark’s transformative impact on the team, emphasizing her leadership both on and off the court. Since being drafted first overall in 2024, Clark has not only showcased her exceptional skills but has also played a pivotal role in reshaping the team’s culture and performance.
“She really fits the culture of what we’re building here,” Dunn remarked. “Not only do we want great players on the court, we want great people in the community. And I think when you watch Caitlin Clark—what she does before the game and after the game, how fan-friendly she is, how much she gives back, her foundation—all of the things she does as a person fit with the type of people we want here.”
Clark’s rookie season was nothing short of remarkable. She averaged 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game, becoming the first true rookie to lead the WNBA in assists. Her presence significantly boosted the Fever’s performance, leading them to their first playoff appearance since 2016. The team’s home games saw an average attendance of over 17,000 fans, surpassing even their NBA counterpart, the Indiana Pacers, on a per-game basis.
Beyond statistics, Clark’s leadership qualities have been evident. In a video highlighting her first season, she emphasized the importance of her competitive spirit:
“I think my competitiveness is one of the best things that I could bring to this team when I got drafted here,” Clark said. “It’s just my winning attitude. It’s been one of the biggest things I’ve tried to bring to this team, just that fire, that competitive spirit, because I think it affects every single person around me and it makes them go a little more too.”
Her commitment to growth is evident as she prepares for her second season. Clark has identified improving her leadership as a primary goal:
“I think for myself going into Year 2, I think just being a good leader,” Clark stated. “I think when you are the point guard you gotta be the strongest voice on the floor.”
The Fever’s offseason moves reflect their confidence in Clark’s leadership. The team hired Stephanie White as head coach and added seasoned players like DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard to bolster their roster. These strategic additions aim to complement Clark’s playmaking abilities and drive the team toward championship contention.
Clark’s influence extends beyond the court. Her arrival has been dubbed the “Caitlin Clark effect,” credited with increasing WNBA attendance, viewership, and overall popularity. Her games have set television viewership records, and her presence has drawn comparisons to basketball legends like Sue Bird and Larry Bird.
As the Indiana Fever gear up for the 2025 season, expectations are high. With Clark at the helm, the team is poised to build on last season’s success and make a deeper playoff run. Her leadership, both in performance and character, continues to inspire teammates and fans alike.
