Caitlin Clark made a strong comeback after the Olympic break, leading the Indiana Fever to a thrilling 98-89 victory over the Mercury in front of a packed home crowd. Clark scored 29 points, while she and Kelsey Mitchell combined for a remarkable 10 three-pointers in the final quarter. Here’s what Clark had to say about Mitchell’s pivotal role:
“Kelsey was phenomenal. She always steps up in critical moments, and she’s been doing that all year. I’m really happy for her. Her confidence and contribution have been huge for our team.”
Mitchell’s impact on Clark’s game is undeniable. As Mitchell puts it, “Basketball is a language, and Caitlin and I speak the same one. We both love to play fast, and I adjust my game based on how she’s playing.” Mitchell’s veteran presence and ability to align with Clark’s pace have been crucial, as evidenced by her 27 points and 5 rebounds in the game.
Despite the debate around Clark being left off the Olympic roster, the break provided her with much-needed rest, both physically and mentally. This downtime allowed her to recharge and escape the intense pressure she faces as a rookie. Whether she was in Cabo or just taking a break, this period has been beneficial for her overall well-being.
In addition to Clark’s rejuvenation, another significant development has been her growing connection with Aaliyah Boston. Initially slow to develop, their chemistry has flourished in recent weeks. Clark and Boston have formed a near-symbiotic pick-and-roll partnership, with Clark’s playmaking and Boston’s improved aggression in the paint creating a dynamic duo. The stats tell the story: Clark and Boston’s assists have jumped from 17 in the first 13 games to 54 in the following 14.
With the Fever now on a two-game winning streak and firmly in the playoff hunt, these evolving connections are proving to be game-changers.
