The Indiana Fever are entering a critical stretch in their season, and all eyes are on the status of Caitlin Clark as she bids to return from injury, so will she be available for the clash with the Golden State Valkyries on Wendesday, July 9?
After enduring a demanding stretch of nine games in just 19 days, the team is finally able to catch its breath before their schedule picks up again with three consecutive home games and the approaching All-Star break.
The Fever took Sunday off to regroup, returning to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Monday for a practice session that, this time, involved season ticket holders who had been invited to observe behind-the-scenes training.
And it truly was a practice session unlike others in recent days as fans received more than just a glimpse of the team’s routine. They were treated to an unexpected moment: Caitlin Clark returned to live practice action after missing five straight games with a groin injury.
Though the 23-year-old guard didn’t participate in full-court drills, the sight of her moving, shooting, and re-engaging in live play was a promising sign.
Still, her return to the court doesn’t offer full clarity on whether she will suit up against the Valkyries, and the head coach, Stephanie White addressed the uncertainty surrounding Clark‘s availability, expressing both hope and caution.
“I hope so,” White told reporters. “The same return-to-play structure we’ve been following.
“She (Caitlin Clark) was able to do a little bit more today, and now we’ll see tomorrow-has there been progress or any regression? How does she feel, how does she look, what does recovery look like?
“This was really the first time we’ve gotten her out into live action, so we’ll see what it brings tomorrow.”
Fever prepare for Clark to take less central role
During practice, the coaching staff appeared to experiment with new lineup combinations as they continue to navigate the fixture list without the hottest property in the WNBA at the moment.
Aari McDonald was seen operating as the primary ball handler while Clark played off the ball-an unusual role for a player used to initiating the offense but who struggled in her last outing against the Seattle Storm.
The adjustment may serve dual purposes: easing Clark back into game rhythm while preserving her health in a grueling season as the franchise already begins to turn one eye towards the WNBA Playoffs.
“I think it can give her a break,” White added. “I think we can get her and our team different looks when that happens.
“So this is really the first time that we’ve been able to practice that. So look forward to exploring that a little bit more.”
Clark‘s presence on the floor, whether or not she plays her full minutes, could immediately change the dynamics for Indiana. Her scoring ability, court vision, and command of pace remain unmatched on the roster and she will draw defenders, creating more space for teammates.
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