Caitlin Clark is feeling a mix of disappointment regarding the ongoing NBA Finals. The Indiana Pacers recently lost Game 4, and unfortunately, she cannot attend the upcoming Game 6.

While Clark and the Indiana Fever will be on the road facing the Golden State Valkyries during the Pacers’ last home game, she had hoped for a quicker resolution to the series. “I was hoping they’d win it in five,” Clark reflected.

Despite not being there, the Fever plans to keep an eye on the game as the two teams share more than just a city; they are closely linked both off and on the court, sharing ownership and venue.

Clark expressed her admiration for the Pacers’ playstyle, saying, “If you watch basketball, you turn on and watch the Pacers; it’s unselfish. They play fast. They do things the right way.”

This is an exciting time for basketball in Indianapolis, with the Pacers hosting the 2024 NBA All-Star Game and the Fever’s growing popularity, especially following Clark’s rookie season.

T.J. McConnell from the Pacers praised Clark, stating, “She’s an incredible player, someone that I have a ton of respect for.”

Relationships between players of the two teams are common, as they often support each other’s games. Sophie Cunningham from the Fever commented on the fun and fluid style of the Pacers, which she feels mirrors their own team’s play.

Head Coach Stephanie White, a WNBA veteran, noted the significance of basketball in Indiana. “There’s no better place, the epicenter of basketball in Indiana and Indianapolis,” she remarked, reflecting on the local passion for the sport.

In closing, Clark emphasized the mutual respect and camaraderie between the franchises: “More than anything, they’re just really good people. So, I’ve been really fortunate to be here during this time.”