After an incredible rookie season in the WNBA, during which you broke many records, including having the most points (769) by a rookie, and the mosts assists (337) in a season and in a single game (19) by any player in league history, how would you feel? Off the court, you generated unprecedented attention for the league, setting records in viewership, merchandise sales, and arena sellouts. But in your second season, with more hype than your rookie year and a year of professional experience under your belt, you played less than half the season. For the first time in your basketball career-in more than 170 games between Iowa and your entire rookie season-you got injured three times in one season.
Well, that’s Caitlin Clark’s situation at 23 years old. Clark has only played in 13 games this season, divided into three stretches: the first four games, then five games after getting injured again, and finally another four games. She has now gone 16 consecutive games without playing for Indiana, plus the All-Star game, where she was selected captain after receiving the most votes in history. Without a doubt, it’s been a second year to forget.
Clark’s Logo Launch Sparks Joy in Fever Victory
Despite her absence, Caitlin Clark’s influence shone brightly during the Indiana Fever’s 95-75 rout of the Seattle Storm on August 26, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. On Monday, Clark unveiled her new Nike logo, and during the game, over 15,000 fans received white T-shirts emblazoned with it, a gesture of support for the world’s most popular player. Clark, exuding confidence, sported pants adorned with miniature versions of her logo and chains featuring the design, amplifying her off-court brand.
Though some suggest shutting her down for the season to ensure a full recovery, Clark’s resilience and positivity remain evident. The Fever’s win was powered by Aliyah Boston’s 27 points and nine rebounds, Kelsey Mitchell’s 21 points, and veteran Odyssey Sims‘ 22-point outburst, her best since joining Indiana earlier this month. These performances highlight the team’s ability to stay competitive without Clark, keeping playoff hopes alive.
Fever’s Playoff Push and Clark’s Potential Return
With six games left in the 2025 season, the Indiana Fever face a critical West Coast road trip that could secure their playoff berth. On Friday, they take on the Los Angeles Sparks (17-19), followed by the Golden State Valkyries (19-18) on Sunday-both direct competitors for postseason spots. Victories in these games would nearly lock in a playoff spot and match last season’s percentage win total with four games to spare.
Clark’s return is anticipated for those final four games in September, allowing her to regain rhythm before a potential playoff run. Returning after over two months straight into postseason play could be daunting, especially after subpar performances in her last games before the injury. Yet, Clark’s history of thriving under pressure suggests she could still deliver, provided coach Stephanie White and the Fever see the dynamic star they expect.
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