The WNBA preseason is heating up — and the drama has already begun. From intense matchups in Dallas to the viral “push-off” moment involving rookie superstar Caitlin Clark, fans and analysts are buzzing with takes, questions, and predictions.

Let’s break down the biggest storylines from Week 1 of WNBA preseason — starting with the most talked-about moment so far.

Caitlin Clark leads Fever past Sky in intense matchup marked by Angel Reese's flagrant foul | Marca

Caitlin Clark’s “Push-Off” Goes Viral: Fair Play or Foul?

During a high-profile preseason matchup between the Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings, Caitlin Clark was caught on camera appearing to use a forearm push to create space before draining a deep three.

The clip quickly exploded on social media, with some praising her confidence and others calling it a “rookie foul” that should’ve been whistled.

Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever at Minnesota Lynx: How to watch Saturday

So, what’s the real story?

Referees let it go — and the basket counted.

The move looked like a veteran-style separation often seen in the NBA.

Critics argue she got “star treatment” even as a rookie.

 

Caitlin Clark playing Lynx at Target Center is a $1M game

 

 

But fans of Clark defended her fiercely:

“That’s a normal basketball move. She didn’t extend the arm — she just protected her space.”

“If that’s a foul, half the league is in trouble.”

Caitlin Clark's Lynx game sells out Target Center - Axios Twin Cities

Regardless of the call, the moment showed something bigger:
Caitlin Clark isn’t afraid of the moment, the pressure, or the physicality.

Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever at Minnesota Lynx: How to watch Saturday

Drama in Dallas: Wings Look Hungry, But Not Polished

While much of the spotlight was on Caitlin Clark, the Dallas Wings showed they’re not just here to play supporting roles. Arike Ogunbowale came out aggressive, the frontcourt showed real hustle, and the defensive intensity was high — at least in stretches.

Caitlin Clark scores 23 points in Indiana Fever vs Minnesota Lynx, ending her unbeaten streak

But chemistry? Still a work in progress.

Too many rushed possessions

Inconsistent help defense

Miscommunication in transition

 

WNBA: Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever are making playoff push - Swish Appeal

 

Still, Dallas has depth and physicality — they just need time to gel.

Expect them to be dangerous once the regular season settles in.

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are dark-horse WNBA championship contenders - SBNation.com

Rookie Report: Clark, Brink, Reese & More

Caitlin Clark – 21 PTS | 5 AST | 3 3PM

Showed range, IQ, and poise. Took some hits. Gave some too.

Caitlin Clark makes her 100th 3, finishes with triple-double as Fever beat Sparks 93-86 | The Seattle Times

Cameron Brink (LA Sparks) – Quiet outing

Flashes of elite rim protection, but struggled offensively. Still adjusting to pro pace.

How many points did Caitlin Clark score? Stats from her home debut

Angel Reese (Chicago Sky) – Physical on the boards

Didn’t light up the scoreboard, but played with edge. Her presence was felt on every possession.

This rookie class isn’t just talented — it’s fearless.

Caitlin Clark scores 28, Fever overcome Arike Ogunbowale's record-tying 9 3s and beat Wings 100-93 | The Seattle Times

What to Watch Next (Pt. 2 Tease)

Can Clark handle full-court pressure over 4 quarters?

Will the Wings clean up their defense before Game 1?

Which rookie duo will rise: Clark + Boston or Reese + Cardoso?

 

Caitlin Clark hits important late three-pointer to lift Indiana Fever to first victory of the season over LA Sparks | CNN

 

 

Final Thoughts (Pt. 1)

The WNBA preseason has already brought us drama, headlines, and a glimpse at the future of women’s basketball. Caitlin Clark may be the lightning rod, but the entire league is feeding off the energy. And if these games are any sign…

 

The 2024 WNBA season might be the most intense ever.

Stay tuned for Part 2 — where we’ll break down team chemistry, coaching decisions, and who’s truly playoff-ready.