An Unexpected Sophomore Slump
After a historic rookie year, Caitlin Clark entered her second WNBA season with sky-high expectations. But 2025 hasn’t gone according to plan. Injuries to her groin and quad have kept the Indiana Fever star off the court for a big part of the season. A shocking twist for a player known for her durability at Iowa and in her debut WNBA campaign.
Now, her return isn’t just about staying healthy. It’s about transforming her game.
Candace Parker Sounds the Alarm
In a candid appearance on the Spolitics podcast, WNBA legend Candace Parker didn’t hold back. She questioned Clark’s off-ball movement, essentially asking, “What are you doing without the ball in your hands?”
It’s a fair challenge. Clark has long been the center of attention on offense, but Parker emphasized the importance of becoming a complete player—especially when defenders are laser-focused on stopping you.
The numbers don’t lie. According to Sporting News, Clark broke the WNBA record for most turnovers in a single season as a rookie. And while her bold playstyle creates jaw-dropping highlights, it also leads to high-risk decisions.
Skip Bayless even said in August 2024, “I forgive many of them because they’re so close to being spectacular passes.” But sometimes, the simple pass is the right play. The Fever must help Clark balance her flash with smart decision-making.
Read More: Caitlin Clark Edges Out Angel Reese in WNBA Player Popularity Content
How Indiana Can Unlock the Next Version of Clark
The good news? Clark’s problems are fixable. Here are four key adjustments Indiana must prioritize:
1. Less Ball, More Movement
Clark had a usage rate over 27% in her rookie season. But there’s untapped potential in running her off screens—think Reggie Miller style. By starting plays in the corner, the defense is forced to shift, opening up the floor for others or giving Clark open looks.
2. Find a True Facilitator
With Alyssa Thomas joining the Mercury, Indiana missed a golden opportunity. Still, it’s not too late to trade for a capable ballhandler or give more playmaking duties to Kelsey Mitchell. Reducing Clark’s load at the top of the key would let her thrive off the ball.
3. Study the Turnovers
The Fever should use the offseason to dissect film and spot patterns in Clark’s turnovers. Cleaning up just a few bad habits could make a huge difference without stifling her creativity.
4. Set Screens Sooner
Clark’s range forces defenders to pick her up early. By initiating pick-and-rolls near halfcourt, Indiana can force double teams and create fast-break-like opportunities in the halfcourt. But the rest of the team must be ready to capitalize.
No one doubts Caitlin Clark’s ceiling. She’s already reshaped the WNBA conversation. But if the Fever can help her stay healthy, lower her turnovers, and evolve off the ball, she’ll not only recover from a rocky sophomore slump, she’ll become one of the most unstoppable forces the league has ever seen.
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