The Indiana Fever snapped the WNBA’s longest playoff drought as Caitlin Clark had a record-breaking rookie season. She had the most assists in a game and a season in league history. Nobody expected her to be this spectacular so quickly, and Clark brought new popularity to the W.
The Fever were bounced in the first round of the playoffs, but that will be a footnote in the story of this season. Fans will remember Clark bringing the sellout crowds and unlimited shooting to the W. The league is exploding in popularity and finally getting the recognition it deserves.
60 Minutes did a feature on Clark and the WNBA that aired on Sept. 29. In it, the rookie was asked about her signature moment of this season and her answer will certainly surprise supporters.
Caitlin Clark’s signature moment was a ruptured ear drum
The 22-year-old rookie broke several records, was an All-Star, led her team to the playoffs, and sold out arenas all over the country. None of that was her signature moment. It was a play that happened against the Liberty.
“I remember we were in New York, and Jonquel Jones set a good screen on me. I actually ruptured my ear drum just on a screen.”
Clark noted that it was a testament to the physicality of the league and was more memorable than the historic performances. Fans can listen to her full answer below.
Caitlin Clark, the WNBA’s first draft pick, tells Jon Wertheim, “Ask me the hard-hitting questions.” She smiles, then shares a signature moment from the season when she ruptured her eardrum on screen. https://t.co/Xcc3OfM7Gv pic.twitter.com/5puTXvRIxp
— 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) September 30, 2024
Clark played in all 42 possible games in her rookie season, but she certainly was not expecting this injury. The 22-year-old is used to physical play as a way to get her out of her game, and she has found ways to combat that. This was certainly a welcome to the W moment, and one Clark will remember for her entire life.
It was just another step to see the 22-year-old and the entire league featured on an iconic program like 60 Minutes. This is just the beginning. The fan base and popularity will continue to grow. With that comes an increase in revenue and pay for players. The W is just getting started, and Clark has played a massive role in the growth.
This exciting rookie class is followed by more superstar talent. Paige Bueckers will keep the momentum going in 2025 and several young talents are ready to shine. They may not be prepared for the physicality of the league like Clark, but their games with help things grow.
The Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark are just getting started. She is already the face of the WNBA and the franchise hopes to put a title-contending roster around her. It is a massive offseason, so stayed for all the latest.