Caitlin Clark’s Season Cut Short by Injury
INDIANAPOLIS — Caitlin Clark, a standout player for the Indiana Fever, will unfortunately miss the remainder of the season due to a right groin injury. Clark shared her disappointment, stating, “I had hoped to share a better update, but I will not be returning to play this season. I spent hours in the gym every day with the singular goal of getting back out there—disappointed isn’t a big enough word to describe how I feel. I want to thank everyone who supported me during this uncertain time.”
Despite the setback, Clark expressed gratitude for the support from fans, which provided her with joy and perspective. She commended her team for their strength during this challenging period, optimistic about the Fever’s potential to secure a playoff spot.
Clark sustained her injury during a game against the Connecticut Sun on July 15 and later developed a bone bruise. In her second season in the WNBA, she averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds over 13 games.
Fever COO and GM Amber Cox confirmed that while Clark’s efforts to recover have been commendable, time is not on their side. “Caitlin has worked hard to recover and return to the court, but her long-term health is our top priority. We look forward to seeing her back at full strength for the 2026 season.”
The 2024 Rookie of the Year was eager to help her team the reach the postseason again. Although she participated in some full-court drills, Coach Stephanie White noted that Clark hasn’t yet engaged in contact work.
Currently, the Fever sits in eighth place in the standings, just 1.5 games ahead of Los Angeles with three games left to play. This season has been particularly tough for Clark, who has faced injuries not only to her groin but also to her left quad. Remarkably, she had no injury issues during her collegiate career at Iowa or her first WNBA season.
NBA star LeBron James encouraged her on social media, saying, “Minor setback for a MAJOR COMEBACK! Rest up, get healthy and be YOU!”
The Fever has also lost four other players to injuries, including guards Sydney Colson, Aari McDonald, and Sophie Cunningham, as well as forward Chloe Bibby.
Despite the challenges, Clark’s impact on women’s basketball has been significant, helping to drive record attendance this season, even while sidelined.
As the Indiana Fever looks to conclude the season on a high note, there is hope for a bright future with a healthy Caitlin Clark leading the way.
