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Caitlin Clark, one of the brightest stars in the WNBA, recently faced a surprising challenge—not on the basketball court, but at an arcade hoop. The Indiana Fever sensation went head-to-head with former NFL quarterback Eli Manning in a game of “Pop-A-Shot” on the latest episode of The Eli Manning Show on the New York Giants’ YouTube channel.
Despite her elite basketball skills, Clark fell short in the friendly arcade showdown, losing 76-51 to Manning. The two-time Super Bowl champion couldn’t contain his excitement over the win, playfully boasting about his unexpected success.
“We do a lot of games on this show with guests. I’ve never beat anyone before,” Manning admitted, revealing that he had been “practicing all week” to prepare for the matchup.
Clark, known for her competitive spirit, took the loss in stride. “I’m honored to be the first,” she responded with a smile.
Clark Gears Up for a Promising 2025 WNBA SeasonWhile Clark may have lost in Pop-A-Shot, she remains a dominant force on the professional court. After an impressive rookie season, which earned her both the WNBA Rookie of the Year title and an All-Star selection, she is preparing to lead the Indiana Fever into the 2025 season.
The Fever have undergone notable changes in the offseason, hiring former player Stephanie White as their new head coach. Additionally, the team bolstered its roster by acquiring experienced players such as DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Sophie Cunningham. With these reinforcements, Indiana hopes to build upon last season’s playoff appearance—their first since 2016—and make a deeper postseason run.
A Rivalry Renewed: Clark vs. Reese in Season Opener
Fever are set to open their 2025 WNBA season against the Chicago Sky thereby making it possible for another eagerly awaited clash between Clark and college rival Angel Reese yet again. Their previous face-offs on court during the 2024 season were excitingly heated, and fans are to expect the same kind of enthusiasm this year.
Recognizing the draws Clark has for attendance and engagement with fans, they have moved their home games versus Indiana to the United Center, the home of the Chicago Bulls. If these games sell out, it has potential to break the WNBA single-game attendance record, in Chicago surpassing that set by the Washington Mystics last season.
In September, 20,711 in attendance saw the Mystics set a new attendance record at Capital One Arena for their game with the Fever. Clark won’t just put butts in seats; she will bring clouds for the league.
Rising Strature
Clark’s Star Power Continues Rising With the arrival of the 2025 WNBA season in sight, all heads will be turned towards Clark as to whether or not she can take Indiana to the next level of their quest. She also has much chance of breaking her previous record on attendance which will mark her influence on women’s basketball growth.
And perhaps she will find the time for a Pop-A-Shot rematch with Manning to settle things in the midst of breaking records and thrilling fans.
