Caitlyn Clark’s standout performance in the matchup between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky showcased exactly why she is the clear frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, and perhaps even deserving of MVP consideration. Clark’s brilliance on both ends of the floor helped her team dominate Angel Reese and the Sky, with Clark finishing the game with an impressive 31 points, 12 assists, and four rebounds on 57% shooting, while Reese struggled offensively and ended up padding her stats during garbage time.

Throughout the game, Clark demonstrated her versatility, setting up her teammates, draining three-pointers, and driving to the basket with ease. Despite being targeted physically—most notably by Diamond DeShields, who fouled Clark multiple times and even laughed off the contact—Clark maintained her composure and continued to lead her team with poise.

Reese, who had been touted as Clark’s main competition for Rookie of the Year, faltered in this head-to-head battle. Her double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds looked less impressive given that much of her production came against Indiana’s third-string players, and her struggles to convert on easy shots only highlighted her limitations in comparison to Clark’s all-around game.

With this victory, it seems clear that Caitlyn Clark has not only pulled ahead in the Rookie of the Year race but may also be pushing her name into MVP discussions, especially given her impact on the Fever’s impressive season. The physical treatment she’s received, as well as the growing tension between her and rival players, adds another layer of intensity to her remarkable rookie campaign.