Caitlin Clark aggravated a groin injury late in Tuesday's Fever win over the Sun.
Caitlin Clark’s first WNBA appearance in Boston was both electric and emotional. Playing in front of a sold-out TD Garden crowd, the Indiana Fever star delivered a mixed performance before exiting late with an apparent leg injury. Despite her struggles on the court, fans showed unwavering support, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
TD Garden Turns WNBA Stage for Second Year
For the second consecutive year, the Connecticut Sun hosted a WNBA game at TD Garden, home to the NBA’s Celtics and NHL’s Bruins. This time, it was the Indiana Fever and their headline-grabbing rookie, Caitlin Clark, who drew a record-setting crowd of 19,156.
The floor swapped out Celtics green for WNBA and Sun branding, giving Boston fans a rare taste of women’s pro basketball. And they showed up in droves — many in Clark’s No. 22 jersey, hoping for a glimpse or selfie with the rising star.
A City-Wide Buzz for Clark
Boston’s sports elite made an appearance courtside. Celtics stars Jaylen Brown and Georges Niang, Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman, defenseman Mason Lohrei, Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito, and even Governor Maura Healey were spotted among the energized crowd.
Clark acknowledged the moment before the game:
“You don’t take these opportunities for granted. It’s always fun to go to a new arena.”
Clark Struggles, Then Leaves Injured
While the crowd came to see Clark shine, her night on the court was anything but smooth. She scored 14 points on 4-of-14 shooting, including 1-for-7 from beyond the arc. She added seven assists and eight rebounds but also turned the ball over five times.
Her only 3-pointer came late in the fourth, extending the Fever’s lead to 80–71. Shortly after, she exited the game, appearing emotional and clutching her right leg — a worrying sight given her recent injury history. Clark has already missed 10 games this season with leg issues.
Fever Clinch Win Despite Star’s Exit
Even with Clark limited, the Indiana Fever pulled off an 85–77 win over the Connecticut Sun. Natasha Howard led the way with 18 points and 13 rebounds.
On the Sun’s side, veteran Tina Charles posted 21 points and 11 boards. But Connecticut, currently holding the league’s worst record at 3–19, couldn’t stop Indiana’s late-game surge.
“It’s Special to Play Here” – Clark on Boston
Before tip-off, Clark spoke about her admiration for Boston's basketball legacy.
“The Celtics are one of the premier NBA organizations. It’s cool to be in this building.”
Although she's an Indiana Pacers fan, she couldn’t hide her respect for Boston’s style of play, especially the Celtics’ record-breaking three-point shooting in their 2024 championship run.
“I enjoy that style of basketball. I think it’s fun.”
Clark also revealed this was her first trip to Boston. She wanted to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway but was out of luck due to the MLB All-Star break. Still, the city left an impression.
“It seems like an amazing city. I’d love to come back and explore the history and everything it has to offer.”
Does Boston Deserve a WNBA Team?
With back-to-back sellouts at TD Garden, the question resurfaced — why doesn’t Boston have a WNBA team of its own?
Aliyah Boston, Fever All-Star and Massachusetts native, believes the city is ready.
“Look at the energy here. It’s been sold out both times. The fan support is real.”
With fan enthusiasm, star power, and a basketball-hungry city, Boston may be sending a loud and clear message to the WNBA.
What’s Next for Clark and the Fever?
Clark’s injury will now be the focus for the Fever. Her presence has transformed Indiana into a must-watch team and helped boost WNBA visibility.
Fans in Boston, and across the league, will be hoping for a quick recovery. Because wherever Caitlin Clark goes, the spotlight follows — and women’s basketball shines a little brighter.
