Caitlin Clark‘s much-anticipated WNBA preseason debut may be on hold, as the Indiana Fever announced troubling news about their rising star.
With just hours before the team’s first preseason game against the Washington Mystics, the franchise revealed that Clark is dealing with a leg issue that puts her availability in serious doubt.
The left leg discomfort has earned Clark a “questionable” designation for Saturday’s game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
The matchup was expected to be a marquee moment, as Clark steps onto a WNBA court for the first time in front of her new home crowd-an event set to be nationally televised on NBA TV. Now, fans across the country may have to wait a bit longer to see one of the most hyped rookies in recent WNBA history make her professional debut.
Caution around Clark as Fever eyes long-term goals
Though the team has remained tight-lipped about the severity or nature of Clark’s injury, her participation in Friday’s practice offers a glimmer of hope.
According to Chloe Peterson of IndyStarSports, Clark appeared to be moving without visible limitations during the media-accessible portion of practice, suggesting the injury may not be serious. However, the Fever are taking no chances as they enter a season with high expectations.
Clark was selected No. 1 overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft after a record-breaking college career at Iowa. Her arrival has already revitalized the Indiana franchise, bringing national attention and sparking excitement among Fever fans. But as with all rookies making the leap to the pros, managing physical health is crucial during the transition.
Veteran Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell, speaking prior to the injury update, offered valuable insight on the importance of recovery-particularly for new players like Clark.
“I think recovery is everything. I think if you’re in tune with your body, you know what you need. The young ones, specifically Caitlin, hopefully they take more, be in tune with that this year,” Mitchell said.
Fever face big test without their star
Indiana’s preseason will test not only Clark‘s readiness but the depth of the team overall. The Fever made key offseason additions like Natasha Howard and DeWanna Bonner, and head coach Christie Sides has been vocal about the team’s renewed competitive outlook. But without Clark, the offensive engine and public face of the franchise, the team may struggle to find its rhythm early.
Looking ahead, the Fever will play again on Sunday in Iowa City, where Clark could potentially return to the court in front of her hometown fans. That game, against Brazil’s national team, would mark an emotional and symbolic homecoming-but only if Clark is healthy enough to play.
For now, all eyes remain on the medical updates. Fans, teammates, and the entire WNBA are hoping this is just a minor setback for one of the game’s brightest new stars.
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