Caitlin Clark, star player of the Indiana Fever, will be sidelined for at least two weeks due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during a recent game against the New York Liberty. The Fever narrowly lost that matchup, 90-88.
Coach Stephanie White addressed the media on Monday, sharing that she was uncertain about the moment of injury but learned afterward that Clark was experiencing issues with her leg. An MRI confirmed the strain, which poses a significant setback for the Fever, a team considered a title contender this season.
“Everyone wants to see her out there playing,” White stated following practice. “But it’s crucial that we keep things in perspective. We need to ensure her health is prioritized for the long term and avoid pushing her too hard.”
Clark was absent from the end of practice and was unavailable for comment. Team officials will provide updates as more information becomes available.
This marks the first time in Clark’s career that she will miss games; she previously participated in all 40 games and both playoff games last season, as well as the first four games of this season. Although she sat out Indiana’s first preseason game due to a leg issue, she had a strong performance in her last game, scoring 18 points and providing 10 assists. However, she lost possession during the final moments while attempting a three-point shot that could have secured a victory.
White voiced her frustration after the game, noting that a foul should have been called against New York. Clark’s current season averages are impressive, with 19.0 points, 9.3 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game, helping the Fever to a balanced start of 2-2. They are set to play again on Wednesday against Washington, where Clark is expected to miss yet another matchup, along with future home games against Connecticut and an anticipated rematch against Chicago on June 7.
While it is unclear how the Fever will fill the void left by Clark’s absence, the team has strengthened its roster with experienced veterans during the offseason, giving them a better chance at success without their star player.
“Sometimes, great players might not reveal when they are struggling,” White commented. “I’m relieved that she did so, as it allows us to address the issue early.”
Clark previously set a league record for assists in a season last year, following an impressive college career with the Iowa Hawkeyes, where she led the team to two consecutive national runner-up finishes.
