Caitlin Clark on the Significance of Returning to Iowa for the Fever’s Preseason Game | WNBA on ESPN

Iowa City, IA – May 2025 – In a heartfelt homecoming, Caitlin Clark made her highly anticipated return to Iowa on May 4, 2025, leading the Indiana Fever in a dominant 108-44 victory over the Brazilian National Team in a preseason game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This game wasn’t just a preseason matchup—it was a full-circle moment for Clark, who played her collegiate basketball at Iowa, setting records and winning the hearts of fans across the country.

A Full-Circle Moment for Caitlin Clark

For Caitlin Clark, returning to the arena where she became an NCAA legend was more than just a game. “Iowa will always be home for me. To come back and play here, in front of the fans that supported me from the beginning, means the world,” Clark said after the game. It was an emotional return for the former Hawkeye, who still holds numerous Iowa records, including being the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer. This game was part of a WNBA initiative to bring players back to their roots, celebrating the league’s growth and the athletes who have contributed to its rise.

Unprecedented Ticket Demand for Clark’s Return

The preseason game generated immense excitement, and the demand for tickets was sky-high. Carver-Hawkeye Arena sold out quickly, with over 15,000 fans packing the stands to watch Clark take the court once again. On the secondary market, ticket prices reached an average of $440, showcasing just how important this game was to the Iowa community and basketball fans alike. The historic turnout marked a milestone in the popularity of women’s basketball and its expanding fanbase.

Clark’s Stellar Performance

Caitlin Clark didn’t just make a grand entrance; she backed it up with a dominant performance on the court. The former Hawkeye star finished the game with 16 points, six rebounds, and five assists, helping the Fever maintain control throughout the game. One of her standout moments came when she hit a 3-pointer from the same spot where she set the NCAA all-time scoring record, thrilling the crowd and reminding everyone why she’s considered one of the top players in the WNBA.

Looking Toward the Future

As the Fever gear up for the start of the regular season on May 17, 2025, Caitlin Clark is poised to take on an even more significant leadership role in her second season in the WNBA. With her skillset and experience, Clark is expected to help guide the Fever to greater heights. Fans are excited to see how her leadership and ability to perform under pressure will shape the team’s journey in the upcoming season.

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