Iowa legend Caitlin Clark's first Fever shot back at her college home is perfect
Caitlin Clark, a celebrated Iowa legend and current Indiana Fever star, made a triumphant return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena for a basketball game against the Brazilian National Team. Despite dealing with knee tightness that had kept her out of a previous exhibition, she was cleared to play shortly before the game. Within the first 30 seconds, Clark scored a remarkable deep 3-pointer, symbolizing her connection with the Iowa crowd where she had made countless memorable shots. This exhibition game was more than just a contest; it was an emotional homecoming for Clark, highlighting her growth from a college star to a professional athlete. Her performance was a testament to her enduring impact, showcasing her skill, leadership, and charisma on the court, making every game she plays an elevated experience for the audience.
Caitlin Clark returned to Carver-Hawkeye Arena as part of the Indiana Fever team to face the Brazilian National Team, a game significant for being hosted at her former college venue.
Initially doubtful to play due to tightness in her left knee, Clark received clearance to participate just before the game began, marking her awaited return to the arena.
Demonstrating her signature skill, Clark opened the game with a stunning deep 3-pointer, a move that resonated deeply with the local crowd familiar with her past heroics.
This game served as an emotional reunion, allowing Clark and the Iowa fans to celebrate her journey from a collegiate icon to a professional basketball influencer.
Clark's presence on the court transcends the typical game experience, as her dynamic play style, including her shooting and leadership, elevates the event's significance beyond a mere exhibition.
The event underscored Clark's status as a beloved figure in Iowa, capturing the essence of her legacy and the mutual admiration between her and the fans.
Billy Heyen, a freelance sports writer, highlighted the importance of Clark's return and her ability to deliver memorable performances that captivate audiences in various sports media outlets.
Caitlin Clark has a tendency to rise to the occasion.
The Iowa legend and Indiana Fever star was back at Carver-Hawkeye Arena for a basketball game on Sunday. The WNBA's Fever took on the Brazilian National Team in a contest geared toward Clark getting back to her college gym.
Clark wasn't even a sure thing to play. She missed Indiana's Saturday exhibition with tightness in her left knee.
But on Sunday, Clark was deemed officially good to go shortly before tip-off.
And she didn't waste any time.
Just 30 seconds into the game, Clark crossed over at the top of the key, dribbled a bit to her left and launched a deep 3-pointer.
We don't even have to tell you what happened when that ball reached the basket.
But you can watch it if you'd like:
Caitlin Clark pulls up from three to open the scoring in her return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena 🎯🙌
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 4, 2025
"You bet!" pic.twitter.com/ORO7oispjW
MORE: Caitlin Clark's teammate threatens to beat her famous 3-point shot
Clark, the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history, had made so many shots in this building already.
But this one was different, a bit more special.
It was the Iowa crowd's native daughter returned home. She had left and already proven herself to be a conquering hero out in the professional world, and now she and they had the chance to pay homage to one another.
There was no other way for the scoring to start in this game than a Clark 3.
Sure, it's just an exhibition game, but whenever Clark plays basketball, it's an elevated art form. Her deep shots, her passing, her leadership and swagger and brashness, they all make her games worth more than whatever stage they happen to be on.
And on Sunday, the stage was a great one, and there was Clark, shining in the bright lights as she always does.