In Indianapolis on Friday, the Indiana Fever built their largest lead of the season against a depleted Phoenix Mercury squad but narrowly held on for the win. Caitlin Clark starred in the 95-86 victory, guiding the Fever as they surged to a 31-point advantage late in the third quarter. Clark, posting her fifth consecutive double-double, scored 20 points while shooting 50% from the field and 2-of-7 from beyond the arc. The top pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft contributed 13 assists, grabbed six rebounds, blocked two shots, but also committed six turnovers.

The Phoenix Mercury faced significant roster challenges as they played without Diana Taurasi, the WNBA’s leading all-time scorer, for the third straight game due to a left lower leg injury. Additionally, Natasha Cloud (left knee), Charisma Osborne (left lower leg), and Sug Sutton (right hamstring) were also sidelined. Compounding their difficulties, Brittney Griner sustained a right hip injury early in the second quarter and was unable to return for the remainder of the game.

Caitlin Clark Creates History with Stellar Performance

Despite a strong comeback by the Mercury, including a 17-0 run that narrowed the Fever’s lead to single digits late in the fourth quarter, Indiana managed to hold on. Kahleah Copper led Phoenix with 36 points, but it wasn’t enough to overtake Indiana. Kelsey Mitchell sealed the victory for the Fever with a three-pointer that extended their lead to 92-83 with 1:33 remaining. This assist from Caitlin Clark, her 13th of the game, tied a franchise record. Clark, who averages 7.6 assists per game, second only to Alyssa Thomas of the Connecticut Sun (7.9), has now achieved double-digit assists in five consecutive games.

Clark’s standout performances have not only propelled her franchise to victory but have also secured a playoff berth,

despite a challenging start to the season. Her consistent contributions have significantly boosted her chances of clinching the Rookie of the Year award.

Clark is set to play against the Minnesota Lynx this upcoming Sunday as the Indiana Fever go head-to-head.

Caitlin Clark recorded her 5th-straight game with double-digit assists and broke the franchise record for assists (7) in a single quarter 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lBvzJI1s5A

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 13, 2024

roll the tape 🎥 pic.twitter.com/14pu1Tpyzw

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) July 13, 2024