The Indiana Fever started the season 2-9 and was quickly written out of the playoff equation. Even Caitlin Clark couldn't propel the lowly Fever to a playoff berth. That narrative lasted a few weeks. Clark not making the Olympic team was a blessing in disguise for her and her team.
The rookie went on a tear in the second half of the season. She averaged 23.1 points, 8.9 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, shooting 43.5% from the field and 37% from three. Indiana went from an afterthought to a playoff-bound team as the No. 6 seed.
The hype was sky-high for Clark and the Fever entering the postseason. Indiana had the potential to be a sneaky upset, but Connecticut was prepared. The Sun secured the 2-0 series win. Their experience was too much for a young Fever team.
Clark and Indiana are disappointed with the outcome, but they far exceeded expectations in 2024. The two losses to the Sun to end the season are more important to the team's future success than you may think.
Playoff experience will be key for Caitlin Clark and the Fever in 2025
Before 2024, Indiana last made the postseason in 2016. For reference, Connecticut last missed the playoffs in 2016. Ending the postseason drought in Clark's rookie season was a massive accomplishment for the Fever.
Clark might've made it feel possible, but it's practically impossible to quickly adjust from collegiate basketball to the WNBA and win a championship. Let's not forget that Indiana is a rebuilding team. How do you think the Fever got Clark in the first place?
Indiana has the foundation. Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell are the Fever's core three. The postseason experience that trio gained will be valuable as Indiana continues to build something special. Sure, Clark and Boston know what it's like to play (and win for Boston) in the NCAA women's national title game, but the WNBA playoffs are a different beast.
While it was discouraging for Fever fans to watch the season end on Wednesday, playing against a seasoned team like the Sun in a high-stakes environment will shape Clark's career. Pressure is nothing new to the 22-year-old. It's fueled her throughout her basketball career. You can bet that Indiana's playoff shortcomings will fuel Clark and her teammates next season.