The WNBA season tipped off Friday night, headlined by Paige Bueckers' debut with the Dallas Wings.
Less than 24 hours later, the Chicago Sky, led by rising star Angel Reese, opened their season in Indianapolis against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever in a highly anticipated matchup that began just after 3 p.m. ET.
By halftime, the Fever held a commanding 45–32 lead, and Clark had already made WNBA history in an unexpected way. She finished the half with 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three blocks — a well-rounded performance that stood out.
According to FeverStats, Clark set a WNBA record for the most blocks in a season-opening game by a point guard.
Clark spent the offseason focused on getting stronger in the weight room—and it’s clearly paying off. During training camp, teammate Aliyah Boston was asked about the biggest difference she’s seen in Clark’s game, and she didn’t hesitate: Clark’s improved physicality and strength stood out.
Recording three blocks in the first half—after averaging just 0.7 per game over 40 games last season—speaks volumes about Clark’s development on the defensive end. Her increased physicality helped Indiana hold the Sky to just 32 points through the first two quarters.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Clark wasn’t the only one to make history in the first half, though. Angel Reese became the youngest player in WNBA history to reach 450 points and 450 rebounds, hitting that milestone in just her 41st career game—and she did it in the first quarter.
At halftime, Reese had posted seven points and nine rebounds, while Clark finished the half strong, hitting a 3-pointer just before the buzzer to make it her second of the game.
Her only downside in the early stages was committing three turnovers. However, given that she’s playing alongside new teammates and under a new head coach, it’s expected that the chemistry will improve as the season progresses.
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