SerpApi.Org
Caitlin Clark spent the past week making WNBA history. Her latest viral moment, however, had nothing to do with one of her deep 3-pointers or pinpoint passes.
The Indiana Fever celebrated Clark at practice Tuesday after she was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for games played from July 13-19. Coach Stephanie White delivered the news in front of the team, prompting cheers and applause from Clark's teammates.
Clark initially offered a thumbs-up before smiling and joining the celebration. When she later watched the Fever's video, though, she noticed something else entirely.
"I'm pale but I'm not this pale," Clark wrote in the comment section of Indiana's post.
The self-deprecating response quickly became another reminder that Clark's sense of humor has remained intact during a spectacular season.
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White opened the announcement by telling Indiana's players, "We got another Player of the Week," before turning toward Clark. The Fever erupted in celebration as Clark appeared somewhat reluctant to accept the attention. She smiled, clapped and acknowledged the recognition, but her reaction in the comment section ultimately stole the show.
Clark's remark also gave her teammates more material for an ongoing joke inside the Fever locker room. Lexie Hull and Sophie Cunningham have previously teased Clark about her complexion and suggested she needs to spend more time working on her tan.
After Indiana posted the brightly lit practice video, Clark apparently decided to beat her teammates to the punch.
It was a funny conclusion to a week defined by her historic production.
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Clark earns Player of the Week after record-setting performance
Clark averaged 25 points, 7.7 assists and 2.3 rebounds over three games during the award period. She shot 43.5 percent from the field while helping Indiana continue its strong season.
The signature performance came Friday against the Seattle Storm. Clark finished with 45 points, 10 assists, four steals, two rebounds and two blocks in the Fever's 110-107 victory. She became the first player in WNBA history to produce at least 40 points and 10 assists in a single game.
The Indiana guard also became the fastest player in league history to make 200 career 3-pointers. Those achievements made Clark a clear choice for the weekly honor. Her response to receiving it also illustrated why she has connected with so many fans. Even after one of the best performances in WNBA history, she was willing to poke fun at herself over a practice video.
Indiana entered the week with a 16-10 record and another game approaching against the Connecticut Sun. Clark was listed as probable because of a back issue, an encouraging sign for a Fever team attempting to carry its momentum into the All-Star break.
If Clark keeps producing at this level, White may have several more awards to announce before the season ends. The Fever might just need to adjust the lighting first.
