Diving into the WNBA playoffs provided Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever with a glimpse of their future ambitions, as Clark shared on Friday during the exit interviews. As she heads into the offseason, her aim is to help the Fever secure a top-four seed next season.

Under the current WNBA playoff structure—featuring three-game series in the first round with a home-home-away arrangement—a top-four seed guarantees a home playoff match. This is something Clark and the Fever missed out on this year after being swept by Connecticut.

As she takes her first break from organized basketball in nearly a year, what are Clark’s next steps?

The projected Rookie of the Year didn’t specify which aspects of her game she plans to improve this offseason, but mentioned, “as a point guard and a leader, there are many areas where I can enhance my performance.” She expressed her enthusiasm for hard work and her eagerness to hit the gym soon.

“I believe there are countless ways for me to continue improving,” said Clark. “This passion drives me and keeps me motivated. I feel like we were beginning to find our rhythm toward the end.”

General manager Lin Dunn and Fever coach Christie Sides concurred with Clark’s perspective, particularly regarding their standout rookie’s performance.

Dunn noted that for all of Clark’s college accomplishments, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft was “often underestimated in terms of her speed, strength, and quickness.” She particularly admired Clark’s ability to adapt to the league’s physicality, and despite a tough 1-8 start for the Fever, Dunn stated, “by the Olympic break, we finally saw the Caitlin Clark we expected.”

Dunn expressed excitement about Clark leading the Fever and uplifting her teammates as they head towards competing for championships again.

For the time being, Clark plans to take a break. She acknowledged the pressure of having “everyone constantly observing your every move,” and is looking forward to stepping away from the limelight for a bit.

During Game 2 on Wednesday, ESPN commentators mentioned that Clark will not be participating in winter basketball, whether overseas or in the upcoming Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, which is being launched by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Clark did not confirm her offseason arrangements immediately following the loss or during her Friday comments.

She took a moment to reminisce about some highlights of the season, such as the 78-73 victory in Los Angeles at the season’s start. Despite struggling with her shots that game—“I couldn’t buy a basket!” she chuckled—she made two crucial three-pointers in the final 2:27, securing the win for the Fever. That night, she was just two assists shy of a triple-double, a feat she achieved twice, making her the first WNBA rookie to do so.

The demand for the LA-Indiana matchup was so significant that it had to be moved to Crypto.com Arena, home of the Lakers, a venue rich in basketball heritage that resonates with a basketball fan like Clark.

Among Clark’s many achievements this season, it may be the moments beyond the court that resonate most with her. In Indiana, the Fever consistently attracted enthusiastic crowds at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, setting a new WNBA attendance record.

“Playing in front of these fans at home, seeing how excited the young girls are and the emotional reactions from people in the stands—it’s incredible,” Clark remarked. “It makes you realize the impact you have on others’ lives, and that’s what makes it so special.”