Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark Sidelined 2 Weeks With Quad Injury/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will miss at least two weeks due to a left quadriceps strain sustained during a narrow loss to the New York Liberty. Her absence disrupts the Fever’s early momentum and raises questions about their offensive rhythm. Head coach Stephanie White emphasized caution to protect Clark’s long-term health.
Caitlin Clark Injury Update: Quick Looks
- Injury Report: Clark diagnosed with a left quadriceps strain
- Expected Absence: At least two weeks, possibly longer
- Injury Timing: Strained during 90-88 loss to New York Liberty
- MRI Confirmation: Official diagnosis came postgame
- Coach Reaction: Stephanie White urges long-term health focus
- Missed Games: At least four upcoming matchups, including Angel Reese rematch
- Clark’s Stats: Averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 assists, 6.0 rebounds
- Team Depth: Fever hopeful veterans can step up in Clark’s absence
Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark Sidelined 2 Weeks With Quad Injury
Deep Look
Caitlin Clark Sidelined With Quad Injury, Will Miss At Least Two Weeks
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Fever will be without their rising star Caitlin Clark for at least the next two weeks after an MRI confirmed she sustained a left quadriceps strain during Saturday’s narrow 90-88 defeat to the reigning WNBA champion New York Liberty.
Head coach Stephanie White shared the disappointing news during a media session Monday, noting uncertainty about exactly when Clark sustained the injury.
“I was told after the game that she had something going on with her leg,” White explained. The medical diagnosis came following postgame evaluation and imaging, sidelining the WNBA’s top draw just four games into the 2025 season.
A Disruptive Loss for Fever and Fans
Clark’s absence is a significant blow to a Fever team expected to be in strong contention for the WNBA title this season. The 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year has quickly cemented her place as one of the league’s most electrifying players and is currently averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game. Her ability to command the floor and create offensive opportunities has been a catalyst for the Fever’s 2-2 start to the season.
“She wants to play, and obviously everyone wants to see her play,” said White. “But for me, it’s about maintaining perspective. It’s making sure we address this so it doesn’t affect the long term. We don’t want to overpush or overexert.”
Missed Time and Key Matchups Ahead
Clark will miss at least four games, beginning with Wednesday’s road contest at the Washington Mystics. She’s also expected to be out for two key home games against the Connecticut Sun and Washington Mystics, followed by a highly anticipated June 7 rematch with the Chicago Sky—featuring her college rival Angel Reese.
Team officials did not allow Clark to speak to media Monday, and she wasn’t spotted on the court during the team’s practice. The Fever have committed to providing updates as more information becomes available and as Clark progresses through recovery.
This marks the first official game absence of Clark’s young professional career. She played in all 40 regular-season games and both playoff matchups last year and suited up for the Fever’s first four games of 2025. However, she did miss the first preseason game due to a leg issue, raising some concern that the current injury may be a continuation or aggravation of that previous issue.
Managing the Load
Clark finished Saturday’s game with 18 points and 10 assists but also committed a costly turnover on the team’s final possession while attempting a game-winning three-pointer. White voiced her frustration postgame over what she believed was a missed foul call against New York.
Despite her young age and new role in the WNBA, Clark is already being treated like a franchise cornerstone. The Fever brought in experienced veterans during the offseason to provide leadership and championship pedigree, which could prove vital in navigating this stretch without her.
The team has not disclosed a concrete plan for replacing Clark’s production. Whether it’s a reshuffle in the backcourt or increased reliance on veterans, the Fever will have to adapt quickly in a tightly packed early-season schedule.
Long-Term View for Clark and the League
White emphasized that Clark’s transparency about the pain may have prevented a more serious outcome. “Sometimes great players don’t tell you when they’re hurting,” she said. “I’m glad she did because we need to nip this in the bud.”
Clark’s meteoric rise has captivated fans and fueled record-breaking attendance and television ratings across the league. Her continued health is not only vital to the Fever’s title hopes but also to the broader growth trajectory of the WNBA.
Clark is coming off a historic rookie season in which she set a WNBA single-season record with 337 assists, fresh off leading Iowa to back-to-back NCAA championship game appearances.
As the Fever now prepare for a crucial stretch without their leader, all eyes will be on how quickly Clark can return—and whether Indiana can stay competitive in her absence.
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