Story perspectives

Clark's 45 Points, 10 Assists Spark Indiana’s Franchise-Record Win

7/18/2026

Summary

Clark Sets Record

Caitlin Clark scored 45 points with 10 assists as the Indiana Fever beat the Seattle Storm 110-107 on Friday, setting a franchise record.
It was the first 40-point, 10-assist game and made Clark the fastest player to reach 200 career three-pointers in 74 games.
Kelsey Mitchell added 30 points, lifting Indiana to a 15-10 record.
Dominique Malonga posted 28 points and 14 rebounds as Seattle suffered its fourth straight loss.

Summary

Lawmakers Demand Accountability

Eleven Republican lawmakers wrote to WNBA leadership demanding accountability and stronger protection for Clark after the June throat-punch.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert declined an interview on The Dan Patrick Show, drawing criticism after the cancellation was publicized.
Clark called the June punch by Phoenix’s Alyssa Thomas a flagrant foul, urged the league to improve player safety, and remained on a minutes restriction because of a lingering back injury.

History

Historical Context

In April 1996 the NBA approved the Women’s National Basketball Association, which began play in June 1997 with eight teams under founding president Val Ackerman. The league’s longstanding emphasis on player safety resurfaces as rookie Caitlin Clark’s June 2024 on-court incident prompts U.S. Republican lawmakers to demand stricter player-protection rules.

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Clark Sets Record

Caitlin Clark scored 45 points with 10 assists as the Indiana Fever beat the Seattle Storm 110-107 on Friday, setting a franchise record.
It was the first 40-point, 10-assist game and made Clark the fastest player to reach 200 career three-pointers in 74 games.
Kelsey Mitchell added 30 points, lifting Indiana to a 15-10 record.
Dominique Malonga posted 28 points and 14 rebounds as Seattle suffered its fourth straight loss.

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