PHOENIX — Caitlin Clark might have “Indiana” on her jersey, but her reach goes far beyond the Fever fan base — including here in the Valley.
Thursday’s season series finale between the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever had all the energy of a marquee matchup. Fans wearing navy and red Fever jerseys filled the concourses, homemade signs welcoming the WNBA star were held high during warm-ups, and cheers erupted as soon as Clark stepped onto the court at Mortgage Matchup Center.
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Although Clark never checked into the game, she remained the center of attention. Before tipoff, she spent time along the sideline signing jerseys and interacting with fans gathered near the tunnel, drawing loud applause from the crowd. Every glimpse of the Fever guard brought another wave of cheers, showing her popularity extends well beyond Indiana.
May 28, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) signs autographs for fans after warmups before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
The excitement wasn’t limited to visiting fans. Throughout the arena, Clark jerseys mixed with Mercury gear, creating an atmosphere that reflected the growing reach of women’s basketball and one of its biggest stars.
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Among those waiting for a chance to meet Clark was Tiffany, a Phoenix native and 10-year season ticket holder. After waiting near the court before the game, she was able to get her blue Fever jersey signed by the player she’s followed since Clark’s freshman season in college.
Jul 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Caitlin Clark fan Tiffany holds up her signed jersey before the Phoenix Mercury take on the Indiana Fever. Mandatory Credit: Wendy Lopez – Burn City Sports
“The way she sees the game,” Tiffany told Burn City Sports when asked what stands out most about Clark. “She can break down the game like no other guard can.”
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Clark’s rise has been fueled by her deep shooting range and elite playmaking, but Thursday showed her impact stretches well beyond the box score.
Jul 8, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Sparks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Even on a night she didn’t play a single minute, Clark was one of the biggest attractions in the building, another reminder that wherever the Fever travel, one of the WNBA’s most passionate fan bases follows.
