Dallas Wings host Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever in preseason game
ARLINGTON, Texas - Basketball phenom Caitlin Clark did not disappoint in her WNBA preseason debut in Arlington.
Clark was hitting threes early and often for the Indiana Fever in their preseason game against the Dallas Wings.
There were a lot of Clark fans from North Texas in the sold-out Friday crowd that came to see her first professional basketball game at UT Arlington’s College Park Center.
For many, it was their first time to see Clark in action, like Iowa native Cristina Edge, who now lives in Rowlett.
"Because I wanted to try to get a picture with Caitlin Clark. It’s a birthday wish," she said.
This isn’t Clark’s first time to College Park Center. She spoke with reporters before Friday's game.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - MAY 03: Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever drives to the basket against the Dallas Wings during the first quarter in the preseason game at College Park Center on May 03, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty
"I actually came to a game here last year when the Wings played the Links," she said. "It’s cool coming back here. I’ve been in this arena before, and I know their fans definitely bring the energy."
Dallas Wings fans didn’t shy away from the attention.
"And I had to get a season ticket this year. I had to," said Wings fan Donna Davis Sykes.
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Clark did not disappoint in her preseason debut, knocking down some of her trademark, quick-release deep threes. She was already in double figures in the first half.
And the black and yellow Hawkeye colors were easy to find in the crowd.
But along with this new wave of WNBA buzz, young girls and boys are inspired, carrying posters and sporting #22.
Jaylee Gray of Oklahoma traveled four hours to see her hero.
"She is just awesome. The way she plays is so inspiring," she said. "Just everything about her. She can play both sides of the floor. She’s awesome."
The WNBA preseason tips off in Arlington Friday night with Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever taking on the Dallas Wings.
The Dallas Wings ultimately won 79-76.
Clark had 21 points.