Clark Comforts Samuelson After Painful Waiver Decision
Indiana Fever standout Caitlin Clark is offering heartfelt support to former teammate Katie Lou Samuelson after the Golden State Valkyries waived the veteran forward on May 11, 2025. In a simple but powerful gesture, Clark posted “Love you Lou” on Instagram, standing in solidarity with Samuelson during a difficult moment in her professional journey. The two developed a strong bond while playing together in Indiana during the 2024 season, where Samuelson appeared in 24 games and averaged 4.6 points per game.
A Crushing Blow for Samuelson
Samuelson, a 2019 WNBA draft pick and former UConn star, didn’t hold back her emotions after learning of the decision. In a candid social media post, she admitted, “Devastated doesn’t cover it,” capturing the raw impact of being released just one season into her stint with the Valkyries. The team, one of the league’s newest franchises, made the difficult choice to cut Samuelson as they looked to make room for younger talent, including promising rookie guard Kate Martin.
An Outpouring of Support from the Basketball Community
Clark’s public message was echoed by fans and teammates who rallied around Samuelson, recognizing not only her on-court contributions but her resilience and sportsmanship. Her strong shooting ability, including a career 37.1% from beyond the arc, and veteran presence were seen as assets by many across the league. Supporters emphasized that while this chapter may be closing, Samuelson’s career is far from over.
Why Samuelson’s Journey Isn’t Over Yet
Despite the recent setback, Samuelson remains a valuable free agent option for other teams in need of experience, leadership, and perimeter shooting. Her release is less a reflection of her skill and more about roster logistics, as expansion teams often favor long-term potential over immediate depth. Analysts believe it won’t be long before another franchise takes notice and offers her a new opportunity.
A League of Sisterhood and Resilience
Moments like this underscore the unity within the WNBA, where players routinely uplift one another through career highs and lows. Clark’s message served as a reminder of the sisterhood that defines women’s basketball—a bond that goes beyond stats and contracts. As Samuelson navigates this transition, the outpouring of support suggests she won’t be walking this path alone.
