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via Imago

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They say only a handful of people truly “get” what Caitlin Clark is experiencing in the pros. But lucky for her, one of them not only lives in the same city but also happens to be a friend she can roast, go to for advice, and one who is always a text away. Tyrese Haliburton and Caitlin stay connected via a buzzing group chat that also includes their partners, Jade and Connor. Haliburton spilled to ESPN, “We’re talking 24/7 … the four of us hang out all the time,” and Caitlin confirmed he even texts her after a rough game with a cheeky, “Nice triple‑double” nod of encouragement. 

She spoke to ESPN earlier this week and revealed something that the fans already knew in their hearts. She said, “Ty and I would both tell you this is where we both hope to stay the rest of our careers.” After all, the signs are everywhere. Tyrese signed a five-year max extension with the Pacers in July 2023, worth up to $260 million. This year, he helped the Pacers to the playoffs, ending a 25-year drought. And CC? In just her second year of WNBA, she has already become the face of the Indiana Fever. Not to forget, she also helped Indiana reach the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

Clark continued to share that, “People are like, ‘It’s a small market.’ But no, that’s what makes it fun. These people, this is what means the world to them.” It’s the energy that the die-hards bring that keeps CC and Ty going night after night, game after game. However, the Pacers might’ve found another driving force that doubles as a good-luck charm.

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Ever since Caitlin Clark started to show up at Pacers games, something has been clicking. They are now 8-0 in the playoffs when she’s in attendance! Also, it was with CC’s presence that they were able to break the jinx and win their first-ever Game 3 of this postseason. It hasn’t gone unnoticed; the fans are buzzing about it, but so are the players. Recently, Tyrese Haliburton commented on the Caitlin Clark effect. Opening with, “Trust me,” he continued to add, “I know it. and if i didn’t know it, everyone would make sure that i did.”

 

And honestly, it’s hard to argue with him on this one. The streak and her courtside appearances have gained so much traction that national media outlets like ESPN and The Athletic have started pointing it out during coverage. Right now, the Pacers are again going against the Thunder, hoping to bring up the record to 3-1. And, of course, Caitlin Clark is again in attendance. Will the lucky charm work once again? Hard to tell, considering the teams are going toe-to-toe, tied at 91 in Q4. However, they’d better pull out a win since timing is not really on Clark’s side.

What’s your perspective on:

Is Caitlin Clark the secret weapon behind the Pacers' playoff success? What do you think?

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Caitlin Clark’s future attendance

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Caitlin Clark has become a regular sight on the sidelines during the Pacers’ Finals journey. Tonight, she’s back again for Game 4 as Indiana is taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder at home. She hasn’t held back in cheering for the team at all, particularly head coach Rick Carlisle. “I’m just really happy for them,” Clark said recently. “Rick doesn’t get enough recognition for what he’s done… Their style of basketball is unique, not many teams play like that anymore.”

Her deep appreciation for the game and Indiana’s basketball culture is the biggest reason about why she has been such a presence during this playoff run. While she has loved being part of the experience, Caitlin Clark also acknowledges that her own commitments might keep her from seeing the series to its conclusion. The Fever are scheduled to face the Golden State Valkyries on June 19 in San Francisco. This means she would miss a potential Game 6 if the Finals go that far.

“I’ve been fortunate to be here during this time” she said. She then continued while laughing, “Hopefully, they can finish it out in five because I won’t be able to come for Game 6.” That comment shows her excitement around this Pacers squad. If Indiana can pull off another win tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse (which they probably will), they’ll head into Monday’s Game 5 with a shot at securing the franchise’s first-ever NBA championship. With Clark having been there for almost every pivotal moment, they are just a few feet from the action now.

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"Is Caitlin Clark the secret weapon behind the Pacers' playoff success? What do you think?"

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