Indiana Fever is about to face a challenging schedule with five games in nine days, starting on Friday against the Dallas Wings. This matchup showcases two No. 1 draft picks: Aliya Boston from 2023 and the Page Bookers from 2025.
However, Caitlin Clark, the top overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, will not be playing. The Fever’s All-Star guard has been sidelined due to a right groin injury that has kept her out for six consecutive games. Clark was hurt in the final minute of Indiana’s win over Connecticut on July 15th.
Clark has never missed any college or professional games leading up to the 2025 WNBA season, but this year she has already missed 14 of 27 games. Friday will mark her 15th missed regular-season game. Despite her absence, Indiana has managed to stay competitive, boasting an 8-5 record when Clark plays and 7-7 without her. The Fever hope that this extended break gives Clark enough time to fully heal and be ready for the latter part of the season and playoffs. Currently, Indiana holds a 15-12 record, ranking sixth in the WNBA.
Here is what you need to know about Clark’s injury status:
Clark was confirmed out for Friday’s game against the Wings due to her groin injury with no set return date announced. This season has already seen her miss 15 regular-season games due to injuries, including five games from a left quad injury and four from a previous left groin injury. She also missed the Fever’s Commissioner Cup win over Minnesota on July 1, plus the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game and the 3-point contest in Indianapolis.
Clark recently shared that dealing with these injuries has been mentally tough but remains determined to be ready for the rest of the season.
Clark’s injury occurred in the last 39 seconds of Indiana’s 85-77 victory at Boston’s TD Garden on July 15. After making a pass to teammate Kelsey Mitchell, Clark immediately grabbed her right groin in severe pain and did not return to the game. On July 24, medical evaluation revealed no further damage, but the team is taking a cautious approach to her recovery.
In terms of performance, Clark has averaged 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and a career-best 8.8 assists in 13 games this season. Her assists are the second highest in the league, just behind Phoenix’s Alyssa Thomas who averages 9.2.
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Fan Take: Caitlin Clark’s injury is a significant blow for both Indiana Fever and WNBA fans, spotlighting how pivotal star players are to team success and league visibility. Her recovery and return could greatly influence the Fever’s playoff run and energize the competition, showing the resilience and dedication inherent in women’s professional basketball.
