In a moment that reminded everyone why sports matter far beyond the scoreboard, an emotional fan’s powerful message to Caitlin Clark has gone viral — and it’s leaving people in tears across social media.

During a recent Indiana Fever game, cameras caught a young girl in the stands holding a handmade sign that read:
“Caitlin, You Made Me Believe in Myself Again ”

What started as a quiet moment in the crowd has now become a national story. That fan — 13-year-old Emily Johnson from Ohio — has since shared the story behind the sign, and it’s one that’s resonating with thousands.

“I Was Ready to Quit Basketball.”

Emily, in a video posted by her family, said she had been struggling with confidence after being benched during her middle school basketball season. “I thought maybe I wasn’t good enough,” she said through tears. “I didn’t even want to try out again.”

But everything changed when she started watching Caitlin Clark.

“She just plays with so much heart. She shoots from anywhere, she’s not afraid, and she looks like she’s having fun. I told myself — maybe I can be like that, too.”

Emily said she wrote the sign the night before the Fever game, hoping she might catch Caitlin’s attention for even a second. What she didn’t expect was for the cameras — and thousands of fans online — to notice her first.

Clark Responds with Class

After the moment went viral, Caitlin Clark herself responded on Instagram with a repost of the image and a simple caption:

“Never stop believing in yourself, Emily. I see you. ”

The message has now racked up over a million views and has sparked an outpouring of support from fans, teammates, and even fellow athletes from other sports.

“She’s not just inspiring hoopers — she’s reaching hearts,” one fan commented.

More Than Just a Game

This moment is just the latest example of how Caitlin Clark is changing the face of women’s basketball — not just through record-breaking shots, but through the personal connections she’s forging with a new generation of fans.

From sold-out arenas to unforgettable fan interactions, Clark’s impact reaches far beyond the court. She’s inspiring young girls to pick up a ball, believe in themselves, and keep going — even when things get tough.

As for Emily? She says she’s trying out for her school team again next season — and this time, she’s not afraid.