Caitlin Clark outlines clear goal for 2025 Fever (and why it is not lofty enough)

The Indiana Fever made the playoffs for the first time since 2016 and learned some valuable lessons, despite being swept in the opening round by the Connecticut Sun. Caitlin Clark instantly became a star and already smashed several records in a historic rookie season.

Getting back to the postseason was step one in the Fever's plan to return to their glory days. They won the championship in 2012 and made the playoffs 13 times with Tamika Catchings leading their charge. Indiana wants to get back to that level, but cannot rush the process. It is about building a consistent winner around Clark and continually improving.

The 22-year-old let fans know their goal for next season, but it may not be ambitious enough.

Caitlin Clark wants Fever to be a top-4 seed in 2025

Below is a snippet of what Clark said when asked about what she took from her first WNBA playoff experience during her exit interview on Sept. 27.

“Hey, great we got the sixth seed. Our goal was to get back to the playoffs, but we probably could have given ourselves a better chance to get it to a Game 3 to give our fans an opportunity to cheer us on here at home. That’s kind of what stunk about it. You know next year we’re wanting to be a top-four seed.”

Clark continued by stating that she wants to help build the Fever into a title contender and is using the loss as motivation heading into the offseason. That is precisely what all the legends do. Their failures make them work harder and help them reach another level.

The Aces finished fourth this season and were seven games ahead of Indiana. Getting there is a massive improvement, but not as large as fans think. After their 1-8 start, the Fever won 61.3 percent of their games or a 24.5-win pace over the entire regular season. They were 9-5 after the Olympic break or a 25.7-win rate if done for the entire campaign.

Making a two or three-win improvement is not so crazy. Their goals should be focused on the playoffs, though. Being a top-four seed improves the Fever’s odds of winning in the first round, but Clark needs a deep playoff run to push her team to the next level. The 22-year-old must get a stronger taste of what is necessary to win in the playoffs.

The Indiana Fever want homecourt in the first round of the playoffs. They did not get to play in front of their fans this year, and the supporters missed the opportunity to create a rocking environment for their squad. Gainbridge Fieldhouse was sold out for the entire season, but the noise would have reached a new level in the playoffs.

The Indiana Fever will improve in 2025. Expect Caitlin Clark to add something new to her game, and the entire squad will be more prepared for the pressure. Expect them to take the next step towards title contention and exceed being a top-four seed. Fans won’t want to miss a second, so be sure to tune in.