Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is facing a challenging time in her second WNBA season. The 23-year-old guard suffered a groin injury during the Fever’s recent win over the Connecticut Sun on July 15. The injury forced Clark to exit the game with 39 seconds left in the fourth quarter, visibly wincing in pain and holding her right leg.
This setback has sidelined her for the Fever’s next game against the New York Liberty, and she will also miss the All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis on July 18-19.
Clark’s injury came as a heavy blow to both her and the Fever, as the team’s playoff hopes hang in the balance. Despite her impressive rookie season, which saw her play all 40 games, she has faced multiple injuries this season, including a previous quad strain.
Her absence from the court and the All-Star festivities represents a tough moment in her young career.
The complexity of groin injuries
WNBA legend Lisa Leslie, a two-time champion and Hall of Famer, shared her insights and empathy toward Clark. Leslie, who dealt with a similar groin injury in 2006, offered valuable advice, reflecting on the difficulties of recovering from such injuries. Speaking to CBS Sports, Leslie expressed how deeply she felt for Clark.
“I really feel for Caitlin Clark because I had that injury in 2006,” Leslie said. She recalled the intense recovery process, explaining how she had to tape her thigh and glutes to provide additional support, emphasizing how challenging the injury could be to manage.
Leslie explained that a groin injury isn’t something easily pinpointed, as it affects deeper tissues. “The groin isn’t just an area you can go, ‘Oh, it hurts right here,'” Leslie shared. “You feel it deep, and you need a lot of deep treatment, whether it’s ice and heat and rest.”
The complexity of the injury makes it difficult to treat, especially for a professional athlete like Clark, who is eager to return to action.
However, Leslie also pointed out that rest isn’t a luxury that Clark can afford, given the Fever’s current situation. With just 21 games left in the regular season, the Fever are battling to maintain their playoff hopes, currently sitting at a 12-11 record.
Leslie noted that returning too soon could risk further injury. “You can go back out there, and one move, one change of direction, and boom-you’re right back feeling that same pain,” Leslie cautioned.
Clark’s injury comes at a crucial moment for the Fever, and her absence could make or break the team’s playoff chances. Despite the frustration of missing All-Star Weekend, Clark has shown incredible resilience throughout her young career, and the Fever will need her back on the court soon.
While Clark won’t play in the All-Star Game, she plans to attend the event and support her teammates and coaches. Her leadership and dedication remain clear, even as she faces this tough injury. The road to recovery is never easy, but with the support of legends like Lisa Leslie, Clark has the tools to navigate this difficult time and emerge stronger.
As the Fever continue their push for a playoff berth, Clark’s health will be crucial. With Leslie’s advice and the support of her team, there’s hope that Clark can recover and get back to the court where she’s made such a significant impact in her short career.
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