Caitlin Clark Sets WNBA Rookie Record for 3-Pointers in Fever’s Win Over Sun
On August 28, 2024, Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever made history by setting a new WNBA rookie record for three-pointers in a game against the Connecticut Sun. Clark’s record-breaking performance helped the Fever secure an 84-80 victory, ending an 11-game losing streak against the Sun.
The win marked Indiana’s first victory over Connecticut since July 3, 2021. The Fever improved to a 15-16 record with the win and have now won four of their last five games since returning from the WNBA’s Olympic break. The Connecticut Sun’s three-game winning streak was halted by this loss.
In a tightly contested game where neither team led by more than 10 points, Clark made significant contributions. She set the rookie record for three-pointers by surpassing Rhyne Howard’s previous mark of 85 set in 2022. Clark’s first-quarter three-pointer pushed her season total to 88, despite finishing the game 3-of-12 from beyond the arc.
Kelsey Mitchell was another standout, scoring 23 points and extending her streak of consecutive games with 20 or more points to five, setting a franchise record. Mitchell praised her growing chemistry with Clark, noting Clark’s shooting prowess and the need to be prepared when playing alongside her.
With Indiana leading 82-80 late in the game, Clark missed a long three-pointer, leading to a timeout called by Connecticut with 38.6 seconds remaining. The Sun’s Marina Mabrey attempted to run down the clock but was ultimately unsuccessful. Alyssa Thomas’s attempt was stolen by Indiana’s Temi Fagbenie, and Lexie Hull sealed the win with two free throws, making it a four-point game. Clark then secured the rebound off a missed three-pointer by DiJonai Carrington and ran out the clock.
In addition to Clark, Hull made a significant impact with 17 points and eight rebounds in her second start of the season. The Fever made 13 of 30 three-point attempts, with Hull and Mitchell each contributing four successful shots from deep.
For the Connecticut Sun, Carrington led with 19 points, Thomas added 17 points along with six rebounds and six assists, and Mabrey scored 16 points off the bench. DeWanna Bonner contributed 13 points and eight rebounds.
At halftime, Indiana led 51-42, powered by Mitchell’s 13 points and double-digit contributions from Hull and Clark. The Fever shot 55% from the field in the first half, despite both teams combining for 21 turnovers.
Notably, Simone Biles, fresh from winning three gold medals at the Paris Olympics, attended the game. Gabby Thomas, who also won three gold medals in track, visited the Fever locker room post-game for photos with the players.