Caitlin Clark Lauds Steph Curry During First Visit to Chase Center for Fever–Valkyries Game

June 20, 2025 — San Francisco, CA

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark made headlines Thursday night not only for her first appearance at the Chase Center but also for her heartfelt admiration of NBA legend Stephen Curry, whose influence she credited for shaping her basketball philosophy and shooting form.

Although the Fever fell to the Golden State Valkyries in a tightly contested matchup, Clark took the opportunity to reflect on what it meant to play on the same court where Curry built his legacy—and how that legacy continues to inspire her.

🏀 A Night of Nostalgia and Challenge

Playing in front of a sold-out crowd, Clark said the atmosphere at the Chase Center was unlike any she had experienced in her professional career so far.

“It’s special, honestly. I’ve watched countless Steph Curry highlights from this very floor. To step onto it myself, to hear the crowd, feel that energy—it hits different,” Clark said postgame.

The Fever’s 88–77 loss marked a rough outing for the rookie, who finished with just 9 points on 3-for-14 shooting, including 0-for-7 from beyond the arc. Despite the numbers, Clark remained upbeat, calling it “a learning moment” and “a game she’ll never forget.”

🎯 Influence of Steph Curry

Caitlin Clark has never shied away from naming Curry as one of her biggest basketball inspirations. She’s previously mentioned watching his games growing up, modeling her deep shooting and off-ball movement on his play style.

“Steph changed how basketball is played. The way he shoots, the spacing he creates, the unpredictability—I always studied that,” Clark said. “His confidence, the work ethic, his mindset—it’s something I’ve tried to bring into my own game.”

Though Curry wasn’t present at the game, Clark said just being in the environment he helped shape was “an honor.”

💬 From Admiration to Aspiration

This wasn’t merely a fan moment—it symbolized a passing of the torch in many ways. Much like how Curry revolutionized the NBA with his range and finesse, Clark is now doing the same for the WNBA. Both have faced skepticism for their play styles, physicality, and visibility—yet both have become cultural cornerstones.

“It’s surreal. A lot of people didn’t believe in him at first. I feel like I’ve lived a little bit of that,” Clark said. “So I watch how he handles adversity, how he leads. I take notes.”

🧠 Mentorship from Afar

Although they haven’t trained together, Clark noted that Curry had sent her encouraging messages throughout her college years and WNBA draft journey. During media week, she shared that she had received a brief video message from Curry shortly after being drafted No. 1 overall.

“He told me to enjoy the ride, trust the work, and stay true to myself. That stuck with me,” she said.

Clark also mentioned plans to reach out to Curry directly “at some point this season.”

🔄 From Chase Center to the Bigger Stage

Despite the Fever’s struggles against the well-coached Valkyries—who played aggressive defense and limited Clark’s space—she stressed that playing in high-pressure venues like this will only help her grow.

“The more I’m tested, the more I learn. Nights like this are tough, but they remind me what I’m building toward.”

Coach Christie Sides also backed her star player, stating, “This is what the greats go through. Steph went through it. Caitlin will too.”

📝 Final Thoughts

Caitlin Clark’s first trip to Chase Center wasn’t just another road game—it was a powerful full-circle moment. Standing in the same space where her basketball idol made history, Clark looked both humbled and energized. While her stat line may not have told the story she hoped for, her reflections proved that the night held something deeper.

In an arena built by a guard who redefined modern basketball, another one just might be writing her own script.

🔗 Related Links

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Caitlin Clark comes to S.F. basking in adoration, but roughed up by foes
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