In an emotional post-game interview after the Las Vegas Aces secured their second consecutive WNBA championship title on Wednesday night, forward Alysha Clark paid tribute to her late father.
The impactful win held special significance for Clark, as her father, Duane Clark, was a musician and athlete who had a profound influence on her life.
According to The Athletic, Duane Clark was a talented musician and an avid football player.
He shared a deep bond with his daughter and was thrilled that she followed in his footsteps by playing sports.
However, tragedy struck in September of 2022 when her beloved father passed away.
Earlier this year, Clark had the opportunity to reflect on her relationship with her father.
“He was everything. He was my biggest supporter,” Clark explained. “I mean, everything from high school through college. He was there for all the championships, pro. He was my No. 1 fan.”
In a heartfelt interview with ESPN’s Holly Rowe, Clark expressed why the Aces’ championship victory served as a tribute to her late father.
“He’s been with me all season. He’s been my sixth man. And I know he would be so happy right now, and I’m just so happy. I know he’s with me, and I wish he could be here. I wish I could call him. But this is for him. This entire season, I showed up every day because I know he loved watching me play.
“And I said, you know what, every day, every game, before the game, ‘My parents, Pops, I hope I make you proud. I hope you’re sitting there, joyous watching me play.’ That’s my prayer every day. So that’s how I show up on the floor.“
Alysha Clark gets emotional in an interview with ESPN's Holly Rowe after the Las Vegas Aces repeat as WNBA champions. pic.twitter.com/WTukrDOTWl
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 19, 2023
Clark showcased her dedication to the game and contributed to the team’s success with an impressive performance in Game 4, scoring 10 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing out two assists.
The emotional post-game interview touched the hearts of viewers, allowing them to witness the raw emotions and heartfelt gratitude Clark felt towards her father.
Sobbing right now. Alysha Clark is a legend.
— Lindsay Gibbs (@linzsports) October 19, 2023
