Is Caitlin Clark quietly powering a basketball revival across Indiana's WNBA and NBA teams as a lucky charm?
Caitlin Clark. Image via: Getty Images
As the Indiana Pacers prepare to battle the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals, a quiet but undeniable narrative has been building around Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam have led the charge on the hardwood, there's another name that's come to dominate Indiana's basketball resurgence, and that is none other than Caitlin Clark.
Though sidelined with a quad injury, Clark's presence at Pacers games has sparked the narrative of her being the lucky charm.
Caitlin Clark's off-court magic sparks a lucky charm narrative
Caitlin Clark's impact on Indiana basketball goes far beyond her record-shattering campaign with the Indiana Fever. Since being drafted No. 1 overall, she's been front and center, on the court when healthy, and courtside when not. And during the Indiana Pacers' unexpected playoff surge, she's been something of a secret weapon.
According to Polymarket Hoops, 'The Pacers are now 7-0 in the playoffs when Caitlin Clark is in attendance.' That flawless record includes their Eastern Conference Finals win over the New York Knicks, a victory sealed during Clark's courtside appearance where she playfully mimicked Jalen Brunson's signature celebration. She was also the center of attention courtside.
Even while injured, Clark has drawn massive crowds and energy into the building, bringing the same electricity she used to transform the WNBA's economic landscape.
Finance expert Ryan Brewer noted that Clark was 'responsible for 26.5% of the WNBA's economic activity in 2024,' (per Marca), citing her role in potentially pushing league revenue to $1 billion. And it's not just about ticket sales; Clark's effect on merchandise and TV viewership has been huge.
But now, her influence feels spiritual. Pacers fans believe she's their good luck charm. She was there when they beat the Cavaliers, when they stunned the Knicks, and now, the hope is that she'll bring that magic into the NBA finals against Oklahoma City.
Her friendship with Haliburton only adds fuel to the narrative. The two support each other publicly, and Clark hasn't shied away from vocal praise. 'The greatest comeback team I've ever seen,' she called the Pacers during their postseason run. She's also been vocal in supporting Haliburton's father after a recent league suspension.
While the Indiana Fever's rise is closely linked to Clark's star power, the Pacers' playoff surge has many wondering if she's become Indiana's basketball muse.
Certainly, the stats don't lie, and Clark's courtside presence has been a boost for the team.
Also Read:
Giannis Antetokounmpo gets unexpected advice from NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal as trade rumors swirl around Milwaukee Bucks star
The finals are on the horizon, and the NBA fans are looking for the intense battles. Will Clark's magic lead the Pacers to the Championship? Only time will tell. Still, the Pacers have undoubtedly been disciplined in their playoff journey.
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