The WNBA preseason is in full swing and the Indiana Fever are already making waves. With two games under their belt, including a highly-anticipated return to Iowa for star player Caitlin Clark, the Fever have emerged victorious and unbeaten. Fans are buzzing with excitement and analysts are taking notice. It’s the kind of start that builds confidence and sets the tone for a successful season. However, amidst all the hype and positivity, there is another side to this early success – the tough decisions that must be made by the team.
Caitlin Clark’s return to Iowa, where she played college basketball for the University of Iowa, was a highly-anticipated event for both fans and analysts alike. The talented guard had a stellar college career, averaging 26.7 points per game and leading her team to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament. Her return to her home state was met with much fanfare and excitement, and she did not disappoint. In her first game back, Clark put up 19 points and 8 assists, showcasing her impressive skills and proving that she is ready to take on the WNBA.
But while Clark’s return has been met with praise and admiration, it has also raised questions about the team’s backup plan. With such a talented and dominant player in their midst, the Fever must now make tough decisions about who will serve as Clark’s backup. This is where the team finds itself at a crossroads – do they rely solely on Clark and risk overworking her, or do they develop a strong backup plan to ensure the team’s success in the long run?
National analyst, Howard Megdal, has doubled down on the importance of having a solid backup plan for Clark. In a recent article for Forbes, Megdal highlighted the need for the Fever to have a strong supporting cast for Clark, stating, “The Fever need to have a backup plan in place for Clark, and it needs to be a good one.” He goes on to emphasize the importance of having a reliable backup in case of injury or fatigue, and how it can make all the difference in a team’s success.
This is not to say that the Fever do not have talented players on their roster. In fact, they have a strong group of players who have proven themselves in the WNBA. Players like Kelsey Mitchell, Teaira McCowan, and Tiffany Mitchell have all shown their abilities on the court and will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team’s success this season. However, the question remains – who will step up as Clark’s backup and provide the necessary support for the team?
One player who has caught the attention of both fans and analysts is rookie guard, Destiny Slocum. The 5’7″ guard was drafted by the Fever in the second round of the 2021 WNBA draft and has already shown her potential in the preseason. In the Fever’s second game against the Chicago Sky, Slocum put up an impressive 15 points and 5 assists, proving that she is more than capable of filling in for Clark when needed. Her speed, agility, and scoring ability make her a valuable asset to the team and a potential backup for Clark.
But it’s not just about having a strong backup plan for Clark. The Fever must also focus on developing their overall team chemistry and finding the right balance between their star players and role players. This is where the coaching staff comes into play. Head coach Marianne Stanley and her team must make strategic decisions on player rotations and utilize each player’s strengths to create a cohesive and successful team.
The Indiana Fever are at a crossroads, but it’s a good problem to have. With a talented and dominant player like Caitlin Clark leading the way, the team has the potential to make a strong impact in the WNBA this season. However, it will take more than just one player to achieve success. The Fever must continue to make tough decisions and develop a strong backup plan to ensure their success in the long run. With the support of their fans and the guidance of their coaching staff, the Indiana Fever are poised to make a statement in the WNBA this season.