Breanna Stewart scored 30 points in the first Liberty vs Fever showdown of the week
Breanna Stewart and Caitlin Clark faced off in the Fever’s first home game in the 2024 WNBA season
Caitlin Clark brought the fans, but Breanna Stewart brought the highlights.
What was supposed to be a joyous night in Indianapolis ended up in disappointment as the Indiana Fever fell 102-66 against the New York Liberty in their first home game of the 2024 WNBA season.
Caitlin Clark receives standing ovation from Indiana Fever fans at home debut
Caitlin Clark’s dissapointing first home game
All eyes were on rookie Caitlin Clark before, during, and after the game, as the 22-year-old got to play her first professional game in front of the Fever fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena.
Clark scored only 9 points in the game going 2-8 from the field, which included only one three pointer.
She also registered 7 rebounds and 6 assists.
Clark’s only spark of productivity came in the dying minutes of the third quarter when she found momentum scoring 7 consecutive points, including four from the free-throw line.
The former Iowa star got herself in foul trouble early, which added to her visible frustration throughout the game.
On hand to watch Clark’s debut were Jan Jensen and Lisa Bluder, Clark’s former coaches at Iowa.
Jensen officially replaced Bluder as the Hawkwye’s head coach after the latter announced her retirement earlier this week.
Former NFL punter and ESPN personality, Pat McAffee was also on hand to catch Clark’s home debut.
In the end, Clark finished the game from the bench as the Fever subbed their five starters for the final minutes when the loss was guaranteed.
Breanna Stewart spoils the Fever party
Stewart, the New York Liberty star and reigning WNBA MVP proved she is one of the best players on both sides of the ball with a dominating performance from start to finish.
Stewart started strong scoring 20 points and 6 rebounds in the first half, helping her team take and maintain an insurmountable lead.
Stewy’s defensive skills were also on display.
She delivered crucial blocks and steals on the defensive side that stumped each of the Fever’s attempts to get in the game.
Apart from Stewart’s stellar showing with 31 points going 12-21 from the field, Sabrina Ionesco was among 3 other New York players with double digits in the scoring column.
The Liberty are now 2-0 to start the season, while the Fever are yet to get their first W after two difficult games to start their year.
Things won’t get any easier for the young Fever squad, as they are scheduled to host the Liberty for a second time this week on Saturday.
