Brazil’s Head Coach Praises Caitlin Clark After Fever’s Preseason Win

Caitlin Clark made a powerful return to Iowa City, this time not in an Iowa Hawkeyes jersey but representing the Indiana Fever. The Fever faced off against the Brazil Women’s National Team in a preseason exhibition match held at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, where Clark once made headlines during her college career. The game, which ended in a dominant 108–44 win for the Fever, was about more than just the scoreline—it was a celebration of basketball and the global impact of Clark’s game.

A standout moment came in the second quarter when Brazil’s head coach, Leo Figueiró, took a pause from coaching to approach Clark. The interaction, caught on microphone, was heartfelt. “You’re an amazing player. You’ve changed the history of basketball,” Figueiró told Clark, clearly moved by her influence on the sport. Clark, humble as ever, graciously thanked him and shifted the focus back to the visiting team, asking if this was the largest crowd they’d played in front of—a nod to her ongoing respect for international competition.

Despite the lopsided result, Team Brazil enjoyed their experience, engaging with fans and Fever players after the game. Clark and her teammates were seen chatting with and taking photos alongside Brazilian players, showing the mutual appreciation and sportsmanship that defined the evening. The game was not only a showcase of Clark’s skill but a bridge between cultures and styles of play, all under one roof in a familiar arena.

Following the game, Clark reflected on the crowd that had gathered to watch her play again in Iowa City. “My goal is to give the fans something to get excited about,” she said. “I told my teammates, this is going to be the loudest place you’ll ever play in.” True to her word, she ignited the crowd with a signature deep three-pointer from the logo, finishing the night with 14 points in just over 18 minutes of play. This was her first official appearance of the 2025 WNBA season, having sat out the Fever’s earlier game against the Washington Mystics.

Now entering her second year in the league, the reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year is proving that she’s more than just a collegiate phenomenon. Her performance against Brazil and the international recognition she’s receiving are clear signs of her growing influence—not only in American basketball but across the globe. Clark’s presence continues to inspire the next generation of players while elevating women’s basketball to new heights.