The Indiana Fever dominated the Chicago Sky in their WNBA season opener. After winning the season series 3-1 over Chicago last season, Indiana took the first the first of five matchups in this year's season series.
As was often the case last season, Indiana was led by superstar point guard Caitlin Clark. The 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year notched a triple-double in the season opener, finishing with 20 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Clark checked back in the game late, needing just one rebound, and was able to secure it.
The triple-double was Clark's third of her WNBA career.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).
Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
As reactions began pouring in to Clark's big game, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was among those to acknowledge her triple-double in the season opening victory over Chicago. He sent her a message on X.
"TRIPLE DUB CC!!" he exclaimed. "Great way to kick off the season!"
James has been an open supporter of Clark, often calling out her haters when given the opportunity to do so. There are some parallels between Clark and James, most notably them each being heavily scrutinized No. 1 overall draft picks with high expectations.
This win was a convincing one for Indiana, as the final score was 93-58. After making the playoffs for the first time since 2016 last season, the Fever expect to return this year and make a deep run. As for the Sky, they are looking to return to make the playoffs after finishing last in the Eastern Conference in 2024.
This is the first of five games between these two teams this season.