As the WNBA regular season comes to an end, the Indiana Fever have secured a playoff spot for the second consecutive year. However, the qualification comes with a bittersweet note: the team will have to compete without its most impactful player, Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined due to injury since July 15 and will not return to the court for the remainder of 2025.
Clark’s absence adds to a growing list of key players affected by injuries this year, a situation that has raised concerns across the league.
Cathy Engelbert addresses Clark’s absence
On Thursday, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert appeared on the podcast In Case You Missed It to discuss the state of the league ahead of the playoffs. When asked about how to maintain the league’s momentum despite the loss of star players, she acknowledged the challenge posed by Clark’s absence and that of other stars.
“Injuries are one of the toughest things in sports,” Engelbert explained. “Our data shows that the rates are similar to last year, although I understand that’s little comfort to fans.”
Still, she emphasized that the WNBA has built a solid structure beyond individual names: “Every team has deep rosters and players capable of stepping up when needed.”
Timeline of Caitlin Clark’s 2025 injury
Clark’s second professional season was marked by a series of physical setbacks:
- May 24: left quadriceps strain vs. Liberty, missed five games
- June 24: left groin injury vs. Storm, missed four games
- July 15: right groin injury vs. Sun, season-ending
- August 7: bone bruise in ankle during rehab
In total, she played just 13 games, averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5 rebounds. Despite the injuries, she was selected as an All-Star and led the Fever to an 8-5 record while active.
Impact of Clark’s absence on the WNBA
The absence of the league’s most high-profile player has been felt off the court. Ticket prices for Indiana Fever games dropped 30% from the season’s peak, and TV ratings also declined noticeably.
Even so, Engelbert highlighted that the league is experiencing one of its strongest moments: the historic inaugural season of the Golden State Valkyries, the resilience of the New York Liberty, and the Fever’s playoff qualification all showcase the championship’s strength.
Caitlin Clark and the future of the WNBA
Although Caitlin Clark’s absence brings uncertainty, the WNBA is gearing up for highly anticipated playoffs. Engelbert assured that the league’s depth of talent and competitiveness among franchises will keep fans engaged, even without its most recognizable star in action.
The big question now is whether the league can sustain its growth amid the wave of injuries, or if it will need to reconsider its calendar and preparation to better protect its players.
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