In what has quickly become one of the most talked-about games of the 2025 WNBA season, the Golden State Valkyries pulled off a dramatic upset over the Indiana Fever, defeating the team 88–77 at Chase Center. The match was expected to be a showcase for Indiana’s rookie star Caitlin Clark. Instead, it turned into a statement victory for the league’s newest franchise — and a sobering night for one of its brightest stars.

Following the loss, Caitlin Clark addressed the media with uncharacteristic bluntness, offering a raw and honest assessment of her performance and the team’s struggles.

“We got beat. Flat-out. They were faster, stronger, and hungrier,” Clark said.

Clark, who entered the game averaging over 17 points per game, had one of the toughest nights of her young WNBA career. She was held scoreless from beyond the arc, missing all seven of her three-point attempts, and recorded six turnovers. She finished with just 9 points — well below her usual standard.

“I couldn’t find a rhythm tonight,” she admitted. “They took away the spots I usually love, and their defense was relentless.”

The Valkyries, playing just their tenth game as a franchise, have quickly become known for their tenacious defensive schemes and gritty play. Under head coach Natalie Nakase, they frustrated Indiana from start to finish.

Clark credited Golden State’s energy and preparation as key reasons for the Fever’s collapse, especially after they had built an early 13-point lead.

“They never panicked. They stayed locked in and executed better than we did,” she said. “That’s the truth.”

While Clark has faced intense pressure and media attention since entering the league, she has generally risen to the occasion. However, Thursday night was different. The Chase Center crowd taunted her loudly throughout the game — chants of “overrated” and “night-night” echoed as the Valkyries pulled ahead in the second half.

“It was loud. That crowd was into it. Honestly, it felt like a playoff game,” Clark said.

One notable moment came when Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski, sitting courtside, mimicked Clark’s reactions to foul calls — a moment that went viral almost instantly on social media. Clark took it in stride.

“I saw him. I thought it was funny. That’s what happens when you play in places that care about basketball,” she said with a smile.

Despite the personal and team struggles, Clark remained composed. She acknowledged the loss as a necessary learning moment.

“Every great player has nights like this. It doesn’t define me — it motivates me,” she said.

The Fever now fall to 6–5 on the season, while the Valkyries continue their surprising start at 7–3. The next matchup between the two teams is already circled on fans’ calendars — set for July 9 in Indiana.

Clark was clear: she intends to respond.

“We’ll see them again. And we’ll be ready.”

As the WNBA’s popularity continues to soar, fueled by rising stars like Clark and dynamic new franchises like the Valkyries, games like this are becoming must-watch moments in the sports world.

Thursday night may not have been the result Clark wanted — but her honesty, accountability, and leadership in defeat only added to her growing legend.

“I love this game. I love this league. Nights like this just push me to be better.”

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