Caitlin Clark’s WNBA debut was ‘spoiled’ by last-gasp win as Indiana Fever star dominated in loss to Dallas Wings

CAITLIN Clark’s exceptional WNBA debut came to a disappointing end in Dallas.

Arguably the most anticipated women’s college basketball star in recent years, former Iowa star Clark finally made her long-awaited debut with the Indiana Fever on Friday.

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With thousands of fans packed into the College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, the Fever took on the Dallas Wings to kick off their preseason campaign.

Clark was a hit from the start, with several highlight-worthy plays quickly going viral on social media.

At halftime, she led the game with 16 points, including four three-pointers and three rebounds.

However, although the bright lights didn’t scare Clark, the night still ended in disappointment for the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer.

A last-gasp three-pointer from point guard Arike Ogunbowale with just three seconds on the clock secured a 79-76 victory for Dallas.

The dramatic final score also made its way to X, formerly known as Twitter, where fans wasted no time in expressing their thoughts.

“She ruined Caitlin Clark’s debut,” one wrote, adding, “but no [problem] That was amazing to see.”

“That was nasty,” said a second.

“Welcome to the real world, Clark,” warned a third.

While another fan commented: “This is the welcome to the league moment every player has.”

Clark finished the game with 21 points, including five three-pointers, as well as three rebounds and two assists.

“I thought we played really hard,” she said Sheryl Swoopes after the game.

“A great atmosphere for women’s basketball.

“I think it’s a good start to the WNBA season and I think the way we played, there’s some things we could have executed a little better, I thought we could have gotten into the offense a little better.

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“The pace was incredible. It’s fun that people enjoy watching basketball.

“Overall, definitely what I expected.”

Clark added that the loss gave them “a lot to learn from,” adding that this was “a good learning experience for us.”

Clark’s next game will be their first home game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse when they host the Atlanta Dream on Friday, May 10.

The regular season will begin on Tuesday, May 14th when they head to the Connecticut Sun.

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