Caitlin Clark had an eventful weekend in Chicago. It began with meeting former President Barack Obama and concluded with her impressive performance in her first traditional All-Star Game.
Throughout the weekend, Clark attended sponsor events with Nike, State Farm, and Wilson. Hundreds of fans, including those wearing her No. 22 jersey, eagerly waited for a chance to meet the Indiana Fever star, seeking a high-five, autograph, or a mere glimpse.
Clark expressed her excitement at the Wilson event, where she unveiled her new line of basketballs. “I’m excited this weekend is packed with a lot of stuff,” she stated. Clark emphasized the unique opportunity All-Star weekend provides and her gratitude for participating.
This year marked Clark’s first traditional All-Star Game experience, as she missed last year due to injury. Her rookie season in 2024 featured a competitive game where the U.S. Olympic team faced the WNBA All-Stars, adding tension due to opinions that she should have been on the Olympic squad.
Clark remarked on the significance of participating in the All-Star Game, acknowledging it as a special experience. On Saturday, the record crowd of 19,783 at the United Center was thrilled with her quick contribution. She scored her team’s first eight points with signature moves, including a deep 3-pointer. Despite the removal of last year’s 4-point spot, Clark enjoyed guiding her team to a 129-122 victory. She valued Obama’s advice to “don’t lose the joy.”
After meeting Obama, Clark’s day involved various sponsor activities. At WNBA Live, she joined a musical chairs shooting game at the State Farm exhibit, capturing the attention of hundreds of fans. Clark later cheered on girls in a contest, where the winner received a pair of her shoes.
Clark also visited a Nike girls basketball tournament to support her former AAU team, the Iowa Attack. Her weekend ended with unveiling her new basketball line at Wilson.
For a few days, Clark relished basketball and tuned out external pressures. The Fever are set to play in Seattle on Tuesday.
AP WNBA for more updates.