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Caitlin Clark's Opens Up About Missing Pacers vs Thunder NBA Finals Game 6 - 'I Wish It Didn't Fall on the Same Night as Us"

Caitlin Clark's Opens Up About Missing Pacers vs Thunder NBA Finals Game 6 - 'I Wish It Didn't Fall on the Same Night as Us"

Time of India20-06-2025
Caitlin Clark (Image via: G Fiume/ Getty Images)
Caitlin Clark
, the electrifying rookie for the Indiana Fever and one of the most exciting young talents in the WNBA, has quickly become a beloved figure in Indiana sports. Her passionate support for the Indiana Pacers during their historic 2025 NBA Finals run has endeared her even more to fans, making her absence from Game 6 against the Oklahoma City Thunder all the more disappointing—for both her and the Pacers faithful.
Caitlyn Clark's Outlook On The Scheduling Conflict
As the Pacers prepared for a do-or-die Game 6,
Caitlyn Clark
found herself in an unavoidable predicament: her own WNBA game with the Fever was scheduled for the same night. In a candid moment with reporters, Clark expressed her frustration with the timing, saying: 'I wish it didn't fall on the same night as us, but I feel good about the Pacers here in Game 6. I think they're gonna push it to a Game 7. I think all basketball fans would appreciate a Game 7 in OKC.'
Caitlin Clark's absence was particularly notable given her status as something of a good-luck charm for the Pacers. The team had been undefeated in playoff games she attended in person, making her inability to be there for Game 6 an emotional letdown. 'I wish I could be there,' she admitted. 'Obviously, I've been supporting them all playoffs, and it's been amazing to see what they've accomplished. But I have to focus on my team and our season right now.
'
Fan and Media Reaction On Caitlyn Missing the Finals
Caitlin Clark's honesty resonated with fans of both the Fever and
the Pacers
. On social media, many joked about the 'Caitlin Clark effect,' with some even suggesting the Pacers should retire her courtside seat or award her a championship ring if they won the title. Others agreed with her sentiment that a Game 7 in Oklahoma City would be the ultimate spectacle for basketball fans.
The scheduling overlap between the WNBA and NBA is not uncommon, but it rarely involves such high-stakes games—an NBA Finals elimination matchup and a key WNBA contest.
Clark's situation highlighted the challenges athletes face when balancing professional commitments with their fandom.
Beyond just a scheduling conflict, Caitlin Clark's dilemma underscored the deep connections within Indiana's basketball community. Her visible support for the Pacers has strengthened the bond between the state's WNBA and NBA fanbases, proving that basketball fandom in Indiana is a shared passion.
Though she couldn't be at Game 6 in person, Caitlin Clark's optimism for the Pacers and her understanding of what fans truly wanted—a thrilling, winner-take-all Game 7—showcased her love for the game and her appreciation for the bigger picture.
Caitlin Clark's candid admission about missing NBA Finals Game 6 captured the essence of a true basketball fan: disappointed by the conflict but hopeful for her team and the sport as a whole. Her unwavering support for the Pacers, even from afar, and her commitment to her own team exemplify why she has become such a respected and admired figure in Indiana sports.
Also read:
Tyrese Haliburton Risking Long-Term Health? Shams Charania Reveals Alarming Calf Strain Update
Whether on the court or in the stands, Clark's passion for basketball shines through—and Indiana fans wouldn't have it any other way.
Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
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