WNBA Superstar Caitlin Clark Set for Unexpected Reunion with College Rival
The Indiana Fever have orchestrated a dramatic reunion in the WNBA, pairing superstar Caitlin Clark with her former college adversary Raven Johnson. On Monday night, the Fever selected Johnson with the 10th overall pick in the WNBA Draft, bringing together two players whose history is marked by a tense and viral moment from their NCAA days.
A Viral Moment That Defined Their Rivalry
During the 2023 NCAA women's Final Four, Clark's Iowa Hawkeyes faced off against Johnson's South Carolina Gamecocks in a highly anticipated matchup. In a first-quarter play that quickly spread across social media, Johnson, then a redshirt freshman, found herself wide open beyond the three-point line. Clark, who was assigned to guard her, made a controversial decision to wave Johnson off and instead double-team another player, leaving Johnson unguarded in a humiliating display that captured national attention.
That moment not only defined their rivalry but had profound personal consequences for Johnson. In a candid interview on the 'I AM NEXT' podcast in March, Johnson revealed the severe backlash she endured. 'I was all over the internet,' Johnson confessed. 'That's one reason I hate the internet now, because of that situation. I got bashed, I got bullied, I got called all these things I wasn't, aka like a monkey and things like that, and I just think I wanted to quit basketball at that time.' The abuse led her to consider abandoning the sport entirely, seeking isolation in what she described as a 'little bubble.'
Moving Forward: No Grudges, Only Excitement
Despite the awkwardness of their past encounter, Johnson has made it clear she holds no resentment toward Clark. When asked by Overtime WBB which new teammate she's most excited to play with, Johnson immediately responded, 'Caitlin Clark.' She elaborated with praise, stating, 'She's a phenomenal player, with the things she does, it's bar standard. She can shoot the ball, she can lead a team, and they win. She has a winning mentality, and I think that's the biggest thing.' This positive outlook signals a fresh start for both athletes as they transition from college rivals to professional teammates.
Fever's Strategic Roster Moves for a Stronger Season
The acquisition of Johnson is part of a broader strategy by the Indiana Fever to bolster their lineup for the upcoming seasons. Johnson, a two-time NCAA champion with South Carolina, brings valuable experience and skill to the team. In addition to this draft pick, the Fever have re-signed key players including Kelsey Mitchell, Lexie Hull, and Sophie Cunningham, ensuring continuity and depth. They have also added veteran Monique Billings through free agency, demonstrating a commitment to building a competitive roster.
These moves come in response to a heartbreaking end to the 2025 season, where the Fever suffered a 107-98 overtime loss to the Las Vegas Aces in Game 5 of the WNBA semifinals. The team is clearly focused on improving their performance and making a deeper playoff run.
Caitlin Clark's Return to the Court
Caitlin Clark is poised to make a highly anticipated return to the WNBA court for the Fever when the 2026 season begins next month. The 24-year-old guard missed the majority of the 2025 season due to a groin injury sustained in July, which sidelined her for critical games. Her comeback started in March when she made her Team USA debut against Senegal, marking her first appearance on the court in eight months. This return adds another layer of excitement to the Fever's prospects, as Clark's dynamic playmaking and scoring ability are expected to be key assets.
As the Fever prepare for the new season, the reunion of Clark and Johnson symbolizes a story of resilience and redemption. From a viral college clash to potential on-court synergy, this partnership could redefine both their careers and the team's fortunes in the WNBA.
