Caitlin Clark Still Benched: Fever’s Star Missing in Action for Crucial Liberty Rematch
The Indiana Fever will once again be without their biggest weapon as rookie sensation Caitlin Clark is not expected to suit up for the team’s high-stakes rematch against the New York Liberty. Although reports suggest that Clark is “progressing” in her recovery, the timeline isn’t favorable for a return in time for the showdown. For Fever fans hoping for a spark, Clark’s continued absence is a bitter pill to swallow.
Clark, who has been dealing with a lower body injury sustained during last week’s brutal contest, has missed consecutive practices and remains sidelined during key drills. Her absence has left a glaring hole in Indiana’s offensive strategy, particularly against a dominant Liberty squad that already dismantled the Fever earlier this season. Without her trademark deep-range shooting and court vision, the Fever have struggled to keep pace against top-tier opponents.
Head coach Christie Sides confirmed that while Clark is trending in the right direction, the team is not willing to risk aggravating the injury for the sake of one game — even one as crucial as this. “She’s doing everything right and progressing well, but we’re not going to rush her,” Sides said during practice on Sunday. “She means too much to this franchise to risk anything long-term.”
The Fever, who are battling to stay afloat in the playoff conversation, could desperately use Clark’s presence both on and off the court. Her absence has also been felt in fan turnout and national attention, as the No. 1 overall pick continues to be the face of the WNBA’s rookie class.
For now, Fever Nation will have to hold its breath and hope for a full recovery — and maybe a revenge game down the line. But as the Liberty prepare to take the floor, they’ll do so with one less superstar to worry about.
