The 2025 WNBA season tipped off with a bang as Caitlin Clark silenced critics and lit up the scoreboard in her most dominant professional performance to date — leading the Indiana Fever to a statement blowout win over Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky. What followed was a wave of praise across sports media, with Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN analyst and former WNBA All-Star, delivering one of the most powerful takes of the night.

A Masterclass Performance

Caitlin Clark came into the season opener with immense pressure on her shoulders — from media hype to doubters questioning her ability to transition to the pros. But under the bright lights and in front of a sold-out crowd, Clark delivered a basketball clinic, dropping 34 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds in just three quarters of play.

Her signature deep threes, lightning-fast vision, and composure under pressure left fans in awe and the Sky’s defense scrambling. While rookie Angel Reese showed flashes of grit, she and the Sky were simply outclassed and outpaced by a Fever team finally finding rhythm — and led by a generational talent.

Chiney Ogwumike: “That’s Not Just Rookie of the Year Stuff — That’s MVP Mentality”

Appearing on ESPN’s WNBA Countdown, Chiney Ogwumike was quick to react to Clark’s performance, and she didn’t hold back:

“That wasn’t just a good rookie game. That was a superstar announcing herself. Caitlin Clark isn’t just ready for the W — she’s ready to lead in the WNBA. That’s not just Rookie of the Year stuff — that’s MVP mentality.”

Ogwumike went on to praise Clark’s ability to elevate the entire team, pointing to how the Fever’s ball movement, spacing, and confidence seemed to revolve around her energy and poise.

“You could feel it. Everyone fed off her — the crowd, her teammates, even the Sky looked stunned. This wasn’t a debut. This was a message.”

Angel Reese: A Learning Moment

While the spotlight was on Clark, Angel Reese had a more sobering debut. Despite entering the league with confidence and charisma, the LSU alum struggled to find her footing, finishing with 11 points and 7 rebounds, but shooting just 4-of-14 from the field.

The Sky as a whole were overwhelmed by Indiana’s pace and intensity. However, many analysts — including Ogwumike — cautioned fans not to write Reese off so quickly:

“Reese is a competitor. She’s tough, physical, and smart. It’s one game. But what tonight showed is that the gap between hype and readiness is real.”

Social Media Reacts

Clark’s performance dominated headlines — and Twitter/X, TikTok, and Instagram were flooded with highlights, memes, and praise. The basketball world, both men’s and women’s, took notice.

NBA star Damian Lillard tweeted: “Caitlin Clark got range like Steph 🔥”

Former WNBA MVP Candace Parker simply posted: “She’s here. 💯”

Meanwhile, fans debated whether Clark’s impact could push the Fever into playoff contention — or more.

Final Takeaway

The 2025 WNBA season has officially begun — and Caitlin Clark is not easing in. With a dominant debut and a growing chorus of support from voices like Chiney Ogwumike, it’s clear that Clark’s arrival isn’t just about stats or storylines. It’s about shifting the landscape of the league itself.

As for Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky? There’s still time to regroup. But after this opener, the message is clear:

Caitlin Clark isn’t coming — she’s already here.