The Indiana Fever came out on top Thursday night against the Atlanta Dream, but it wasn’t exactly a banner night for Caitlin Clark. The rookie guard had a quieter performance than fans have gotten used to, scoring just 11 points with four rebounds, six assists-and a few too many turnovers and fouls.
Clark’s numbers were a noticeable drop from her electric showings in the previous two games, which included a triple-double against the Chicago Sky and a 27-point explosion in her first matchup with the Dream.
So what changed?
Turns out, Clark’s former Iowa coach Lisa Bluder may have the answer-and it has less to do with shooting slumps and more to do with how she moves without the ball.
Lisa Bluder points to a hole in Caitlin Clark’s game
During the ESPN broadcast, Bluder was asked about the defensive pressure Clark was facing. Her response? Direct, insightful, and a little surprising.
“Caitlin’s never been great in the backdoor cut,” said Bluder, who coached Clark through four record-breaking years at Iowa. “If they’re going to face-guard her, that’s what you’ve got to do.”
It’s a part of Clark’s game that hasn’t been fully tested-until now. As WNBA defenses adjust to her deep shooting range and court vision, they’re starting to deny her the ball entirely. Without a reliable off-ball game, it’s easier for defenders to take her out of rhythm.
And while Clark currently leads the WNBA in assists per game (8.4, per Basketball Reference), it’s clear there’s another level she can reach if she becomes just as dangerous without the ball.
Veteran voices in the league have echoed similar thoughts. Earlier this month, Diana Taurasi mentioned on NBA Today that Clark’s next big leap would come “when she learns to move like a scorer even without touching the ball.”
For now, the Fever are thrilled to have her at the helm-but don’t be surprised if Clark adds a few new tools to her bag before long. She’s still learning, still adjusting, and yes-still getting better.
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