rookie | caitlin clark (ON HOLD)

06 | I cant tell

tuesday, june 25 indianapolis

Caitlins POV

The sound of sneakers squeaking against the gym floor echoed around Caitlin as she practiced her free throws. Caitlin's thoughts kept drifting back to Julia, although they just meet she has been someone Caitlin is so stuck on for some reason.

Julia had become a regular presence in Caitlin's life, through their professional interactions. As she shot baskets, she couldn't help but replay their recent conversation from today's interview in her mind—the way Julia's eyes lit up with genuine interest, her questions that showed that she actually cared about the plays being made and not just the media.

"Caitlin, you with us?" NaLyssa's voice interrupted Caitlin's reverie, snapping her back to the present. NaLyssa stood nearby, a teasing smile on her face as she dribbled the ball.

Caitlin grinned sheepishly, wiping sweat from her brow. "Sorry, lyssa, just got a bit distracted"

"On Julia, huh?" NaLyssa teased, nudging Caitlin playfully. "She's got you smitten, girl."

Caitlin rolled her eyes, playfully swatting at NaLyssa. "Nah, just focused on the game."

"Sure, sure," NaLyssa chuckled, bouncing the ball between them. "But seriously, she seems nice. You should ask her out."

Caitlin hesitated, not liking the idea. She doesn't feel as if she has some sort of crush on Julia just a good friendship being built between them.

Caitlin just went back to practicing her shots realizing Lyssa was not going to drop it. Back at home, relaxing for her big game in a few days Caitlin saw her self drifting back to what Lyssa said, which had made it harder for her to understand her feelings.

That night ended with Caitlin peacefully going to bed with her thoughts and no texts to Julia as she usually sent on a daily.

sunday, june 30 phoenix arizona

It's been a few days since Caitlin had talked to Julia. Although this didn't bother Caitlin that much as she needed time to get ready for the big game.

Dressed in her 22 jersey, Caitlin stood at the free-throw line during warm-ups, the rhythmic bounce of the basketball in her hands calmed her nerves. The arena buzzed with anticipation, fans filling the stands with cheers. Caitlin scanned the crowd, her eyes searching for a familiar face.

There, near the press box, Julia sat with her camera man, a notebook in hand and a pretty smile on her face. Their eyes met briefly, and Caitlin felt a surge of confidence wash over her. Julia's presence had a way of calming Caitlin's pre-game jitters and she didn't know why.

As the game began, Caitlin moved with purpose and precision on the court. The Mercury put up a fierce defense, but Caitlin's signature half-court three-point shots found their mark, with the crowd going crazy for each one.

During halftime, Caitlin caught a glimpse of Julia on the sidelines, interviewing Fever players. She made a mental note to talk to Juila first after the game—the least she could do since she finally made it to an away game.

In the third quarter, as the Fever rallied against a tough opponent, Caitlin found herself face-to-face with Diana Taurasi. The game intensified, each possession crucial in determining the outcome.

With seconds ticking down on the score board, Caitlin found herself in possession of the ball, the score tied. She dribbled past defenders, the court narrowing to a single point of focus—the hoop. With a deep breath, she launched the ball towards the basket, her entire body willing it to go in.

Swish.

The crowd goes crazy into cheers as Caitlin's three-pointer sailed through the net, securing a narrow lead for the Fever. She glanced towards Julia, who was on her feet, cheering along with the rest of the fans. Their eyes met again.

After the game, amidst the post-game celebrations and interviews, Caitlin found Julia in the bustling crowd. She found her near the court entrance, surrounded by colleagues and players alike.

"Julia!" Caitlin called out, weaving through the crowd to reach her. "I didn't think you were going to make it this time. I told you we win when you're here."

Julia smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with genuine happiness. "Well i'm sure you would of played amazing even if i wasn't here."

Caitlin chuckled nervously, scratching the back of her neck. "Thanks. Still glade you were able to come see me."

They stood there for a moment, And Caitlin felt a surge of courage, emboldened by the adrenaline of the game and the warmth of Julia's presence.

"Hey, um would you like to grab dinner sometime?" Caitlin blurted out, her heart pounding in her chest, not knowing why she just said that. "Just... as friends, of course."

Julia's smile widened, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "I'd like that yeah."

As they exchanged contact information, Caitlin couldn't help but feel that tonight's victory extended beyond the court.

authors notes
short chapter sorryy 🥹
Idk what this chapter is i don't like it lol so we are just going to forget about it and move on to the next chapter

Also I will be skipping some games since commentating on every game will get boring and i want them to talk outside of basketball 🙃