Veteran teammate NaLyssa Smith disagrees with Caitlin Clark, providing insight into the game plan. Ahead of the WNBA Debut
The Fever is considering making the playoffs this season. All due to their star recruit, Caitlin Clark, who, despite the criticism, deserves the roses. While almost everyone thought the one overall pick would be an excellent match for Aliyah Boston, she has demonstrated that she is compatible with many others. Clark demonstrated flawless doubling with Erica Wheeler in her first loss to Dallas. Indiana now has another tandem on the roster, as NaLyssa Smith joins the team.
Clark was dissatisfied with her performance after defeating the Dream at home. She admitted, “I don’t think I was that effective. More than anything, I performed an excellent job of passing the ball and finding my teammates in open areas.”
Nonetheless, her veteran forward consented to argue with the novice. Smith, impressed by Caitlin Clark’s efficiency and ball handling on the floor, stated, “I’m going to piggyback and say she was effective.” She went on to laud the former Hawkeye and reveal their regular-season strategy, saying, “You know, pushing the ball, getting paint touches, a lot of assists for us. Everyone will be focused on the scoring, but she is creating opportunities for her teammates. She gives us open shots and allows us to go to the rim. So, because everyone is so focused on her, she is creating open opportunities for us and passing the ball like a pro.”
While Wheeler did not dress up for the 2024 home opener, her absence served as a reminder that the Fever might still win without one of its captains on the court. With playoff aspirations on the line, let’s see how Smith and Clark fared.
Caitlin Clark partners up with NaLyssa Smith.
Clark may not have been the game’s leading scorer against Atlanta. Nonetheless, she led the game in rebounding. The rookie guard snagged 12 points and a game-high 8 rebounds, demonstrating her ability to excel in all aspects of the game.
She also continued her excellent passing by contributing six assists versus the Wings. Smith, on the other side, demonstrated her unstoppable nature by scoring a game-high 21 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. Clark also made a few assists through Smith, who demonstrated exceptional basketball abilities during the game.
This year’s Indiana roster is undeniably impressive. Although Caitlin Clark and her teammates lost their first preseason exhibition game, it is clear that the team’s connection on and off the court is truly special. It will be exciting to follow their adventure together as they aim to make the playoffs this season.
