Caitlin Clark made WNBA history once again on Sunday, setting the record for most points scored by a rookie in a single season. The Indiana Fever guard tallied 35 points in a thrilling 110-109 win over the Dallas Wings, a performance that also marked a career high for Clark. With this feat, she surpassed the previous record of 744 points set by WNBA legend Seimone Augustus during her rookie season in 2006—a mark that had stood for 18 seasons.
Clark’s achievement is particularly notable given the context. While some have suggested placing an asterisk next to her name due to the increased number of games in today’s WNBA season, the record is hers nonetheless. With 761 points and counting, Clark still has one regular season game left to pad her total before the Fever head into the playoffs.
After the game, Clark expressed her admiration for the player whose record she broke. “I was a huge fan of Seimone Augustus,” she said. “I think she was the first player I ever met. It comes full circle, for sure. I remember getting a picture with her on my dad’s phone… I was always a fan of her game and the way she scored the ball.”
Clark’s fond memories of Augustus extend back to her childhood, when she admired both the Hall of Famer and the Minnesota Lynx from the stands. Augustus, known for her smooth scoring ability and leadership, was a role model for many young players, and Clark was no exception. Now, Clark’s name sits next to Augustus’s in the WNBA record books—a surreal moment for the Fever guard and a testament to her remarkable rookie season.
Adding to the significance of the moment, Seimone Augustus acknowledged Clark’s achievement in a classy and understated manner.
On Monday, Augustus retweeted an ESPN article featuring Clark’s reflections on becoming the WNBA’s newest record holder, showing her support for the young star without the need for an elaborate statement.
This milestone is just one of many Clark has achieved in her debut season. In addition to setting the rookie scoring record, she also holds rookie marks for assists and three-pointers made, showcasing her all-around game. Clark’s ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with her exceptional playmaking, has made her one of the most exciting players to watch this year.
The Indiana Fever, who endured a rough start to the season with a 2-9 record, have since turned things around. Now sitting at 20-19, they’ve secured the No. 6 seed in the WNBA playoffs. Clark’s contributions have been instrumental in the team’s resurgence, and her record-setting performances have injected new energy into the franchise.
With one regular season game left, Clark has the opportunity to further extend her rookie scoring record before the playoffs begin.
As she continues to pile up accomplishments, it’s clear that this is just the beginning of what promises to be a long and successful career in the WNBA.
