Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark is taking the WNBA to new heights. There has been a massive increase in popularity as Clark has instantly become one of the best playmakers in the W. She is setting records and breaking barriers, but the 22-year-old is just getting started.
Clark hoped to be selected for the 2024 USA Olympic team, but it did not happen. She will be a key piece of Team USA’s future, but this is a needed break. Clark went straight from her college season at Iowa right into the WNBA. Getting a month off before play resumes is massive for her recovery.
Clark’s shooting took a dip in recent games and a video from All-Star weekend might explain why. She may take a massive leap with her shooting when play resumes in mid-August as everything falls into place.
Caitlin Clark’s shooting should improve after Olympic break
Fans can see Clark shaking her hand during All-Star practice. It did not prevent her from playing, but she shot just two of nine from the field and missed all seven of her 3-point attempts in the game. Her hand could have been partly to blame.
Caitlin Clark getting shots up after All-Stars practice pic.twitter.com/YmlZ3yNs8E
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) July 19, 2024
Clark’s shooting splits dipped before the All-Star festivities. Over her first 18 games, the 22-year-old shot 35.2 percent from 3-point range, but it fell to just 27.8 percent over her final eight before the break. Clark made just six of 27 over her final three games, which knocked her 3-point percentage to 32.7 for the season.
Whether it was fatigue or a hand injury, Caitlin Clark’s shooting dropped off before the break. A month off to recover and rest could get her back to being an elite shooter. With no mention of her having time to work on her skills.
Fans know Clark can sink triples from halfcourt and is a breath-taking shooter. Expect those jumpers to return when the Indiana Fever return to action on August 16 against the Phoenix Mercury. She already makes 2.7 per game, which is fifth-best in the W. Do not be surprised to see her fighting for first when play resumes. Clark will make more than three each night soon enough and some of those will be from way beyond the arc.
Clark will be watching the Olympics closely and working on her game during the WNBA's pause. She wants to be elite and continues to improve. Do not be surprised to see some new tricks too.