**Caitlin Clark Gets Chills After Surprise Tunnel Encounter: “I Wasn’t Expectin That At All”**
*June 6, 2025 — Indianapolis, IN* — Basketball superstar **Caitlin Clark**, the WNBA’s newest sensation and current Indiana Fever guard, had an unexpected emotional moment this week when someone special surprised her from behind in a tunnel following the Fever’s latest home game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Clark, who has rapidly become one of the most recognized and celebrated athletes in women’s sports, was walking back through the stadium tunnel after a dominant performance when a figure from her past quietly stepped forward and tapped her on the shoulder. What happened next was captured by Fever staff and shared in a now-viral social media clip that has garnered millions of views in under 24 hours.
The surprise? **Her former Iowa Hawkeyes coach, Lisa Bluder**, who retired earlier this year after a legendary career in college basketball. The two hadn’t seen each other in months — not since Clark was drafted No. 1 overall by Indiana in the WNBA Draft — and the emotional reunion quickly drew cheers and misty eyes from fans and teammates alike.
> “I had no idea,” Clark said in a post-game interview. “When I felt someone behind me, I honestly thought it was a teammate or security. Then I heard her voice — and I just got chills. I turned around, and there she was.”
### A Moment of Mentorship Reunited
Coach Bluder’s presence was not just a gesture of support — it symbolized the powerful legacy Clark carries with her into the professional ranks. The two formed one of the most iconic coach-player duos in women’s college basketball history. During Clark’s time at Iowa, Bluder helped her develop into a generational talent, leading the Hawkeyes to back-to-back Final Fours and a national championship appearance.
> “Caitlin is not just an incredible athlete — she’s an incredible human,” Bluder said after the surprise. “I wanted her to know that I’m still here cheering her on. I may not be on the bench anymore, but I’m always in her corner.”
Bluder’s visit was coordinated secretly with Clark’s parents, who were also present at the game but kept quiet about the planned encounter. When asked if she had any idea Bluder might be in town, Clark shook her head with a grin: “Not a clue. She totally got me.”
### Fever Rising, and So Is Clark
The heartwarming moment capped off a big night for Clark, who posted 26 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds in a close win over the Dallas Wings. As the Fever continue to build around their young star, Clark’s poise and presence both on and off the court continue to electrify the league.
This season has not been without challenges. Adjusting to the pace and physicality of the WNBA hasn’t been easy, but Clark has responded with maturity beyond her years. Her leadership, humility, and connection with fans have only deepened her growing legacy.
### Fans React: “Pure Joy”
The video of the surprise tunnel encounter has taken social media by storm. On X (formerly Twitter), fans described the moment as “pure joy,” “goosebumps,” and “a full-circle emotional knockout.” WNBA legend Sue Bird shared the clip with the caption: *“This is why we love the game.”*
Commentators praised the authenticity of the moment, with ESPN’s Andraya Carter noting: “This is what makes Caitlin Clark so special — her heart is as big as her range.”
### Looking Ahead
With the Fever climbing up the Eastern Conference standings and Clark continuing to mature into a franchise cornerstone, moments like these offer a glimpse into the human side of superstardom. Beyond the headlines and highlight reels, Caitlin Clark remains deeply rooted in the people who helped shape her journey.
As she wrapped up her interview, Clark reflected one more time on the surprise visit:
> “It was just one of those moments that hits you. You’re so focused on basketball every day, and then someone who helped build you shows up out of nowhere. It reminds you why you love the game — and who you play for.”
And with that, she smiled, shook off the goosebumps, and walked into the night — a young legend still grounded in her story.
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