Caitlin Clark Breaks WNBA Single-Season Assists Record
Indiana Fever rookie guard Caitlin Clark continues to make waves in the WNBA. After already smashing the record for most assists in a single game and assists by a rookie in their debut season, Clark has now set the WNBA single-season assists record. This achievement came during a game against the Las Vegas Aces, where Clark surpassed the previous record set by Alyssa Thomas of the Connecticut Sun.
To tie the record, Clark needed just four assists, and she achieved this feat in the second quarter when she found Kelsey Mitchell for a 3-pointer. This record-breaking moment is just one of many milestones that Clark has accomplished this season. She has recorded the first triple-double for a rookie in WNBA history and set the rookie 3-point single-season record. Additionally, Clark became the first rookie in WNBA history to record 400 points, 100 rebounds, and 150 assists in a season.
The fact that yet another single-season record fell on Friday night is a testament to the incredible talent and competition in the WNBA. Just a few days before Clark’s record-breaking assist, A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces set a new single-season points mark. This trend of record-breaking performances has become more common in recent years since the regular season expanded to 40 games.
The WNBA has seen significant growth and evolution since its inception in 1997, with changes in the number of games played per season. The regular season has expanded from 28 to 34 games, allowing players more opportunities to set records. However, it is worth noting that before Courtney Vandersloot’s standout seasons in 2018 and 2019, a player hadn’t recorded more than 250 assists since 2000.
Caitlin Clark’s remarkable season is not only about personal achievements but also about the success of her team, the Indiana Fever. After a slow start, the Fever have won eight of their last 11 games and currently boast the best offensive rating of any team in the league since the All-Star break. They have secured a playoff berth for the first time since 2016 and have a chance to finish with their first winning season since 2015 when they made the WNBA Finals.
Despite her individual success and the team’s accomplishments, Clark remains focused and driven. She sees these achievements as stepping stones towards even greater goals. “It’s great, I feel like it’s a great accomplishment, but there’s much more left to be done,” Clark said.
Clark’s record-breaking season has garnered attention and admiration from fans and experts alike. She has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA, and her impact on the game will undoubtedly continue to grow. As she continues to chase records and make history, basketball fans can look forward to witnessing her remarkable talent and skill on the court.
Sources:
– New York Times
– The Athletic