PHOENIX — Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark was focused on breaking a specific WNBA All-Star Game record rather than setting new records in general. During the game, she expressed her desire to surpass the record held by former WNBA great Sue Bird.
By the third quarter, Clark had already broken the rookie record for assists in an All-Star Game with nine. However, her goal was to exceed Sue Bird’s record of 11 assists in an All-Star Game.
Throughout the game, Clark interacted with various players, including sitting courtside with Sue Bird and chatting with other players like Sophie Cunningham and Shey Peddy.
“If it was anyone else, they can keep it. Not Sue Bird,” Clark told ESPN commentator Ryan Ruocco when he informed her about the record. “She’s been talking crap all game, so I’m breaking it.”
Clark played 26 minutes for Team WNBA, achieving 10 assists – just one short of Bird’s record. While she didn’t break the record this time, there may be more chances for her in the future. Clark later acknowledged Bird’s accomplishment postgame, saying, “That’s Sue’s record, I can’t take that from her. That’s my homie.”
This year’s All-Star Game format featured the U.S. women’s basketball Olympic team against a squad of WNBA All-Stars, leading to a more competitive game as the U.S. team used it as preparation for the Paris Olympics.
Fever players Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell contributed to Team WNBA’s efforts, with Boston remarking on the increased competition compared to previous years. In a tight contest, Team WNBA emerged victorious with Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale earning MVP honors.
Looking ahead, the Fever trio of Clark, Boston, and Mitchell will enjoy a break before returning to practice in August.
Follow IndyStar Fever Insider Chloe Peterson on X at @chloepeterson67.
