Caitlin Clark, the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year and former Iowa Hawkeyes star, made a triumphant return to her collegiate roots on May 4, 2025. The Indiana Fever played a preseason game against the Brazilian National Team at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, drawing over 1.3 million viewers on ESPN—a remarkable feat for a WNBA preseason game.

A Hero’s Welcome

The atmosphere at Carver-Hawkeye Arena was electric as fans greeted Clark with deafening cheers. Ticket prices for the game averaged around $670, reportedly the highest since 2015, underscoring the immense popularity of the event. Clark’s performance did not disappoint; she scored 16 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists in just 19 minutes of play, thrilling the crowd with her signature pull-up three-pointers.

The “Showtime Fever” Offense

Under the guidance of head coach Stephanie White, the Indiana Fever have adopted a fast-paced, high-scoring offensive strategy dubbed the “Showtime Fever.” Clark is at the heart of this system, utilizing her elite court vision and scoring ability to orchestrate the offense. In the game against Brazil, the Fever showcased their depth, with contributions from Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, Natasha Howard, and DeWanna Bonner, leading to a dominant 108–44 victory.

Looking Ahead

The Fever’s preseason success has set high expectations for the regular season, which begins on May 17 against the Chicago Sky. With Clark leading the charge, the team aims to build on their momentum and make a deep playoff run.

Conclusion

Caitlin Clark’s return to Iowa was more than just a homecoming; it was a statement of her continued impact on the game. As the Indiana Fever embrace the “Showtime Fever” offense, they are poised to captivate fans and contend for a championship in the 2025 WNBA season.