Fever Coach Stephanie White Issues Firm Statement on Caitlin Clark’s Injury Recovery
Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White has delivered a firm update regarding Caitlin Clark’s progress as she works through a groin injury.
Clark was sidelined Tuesday when the Fever faced the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup final at Target Center. Though she was listed as questionable leading up to tip-off, she ultimately did not play. White clarified that Clark needed more time to fully heal before returning to action.
While emphasizing that the 23-year-old guard is “making progress,” White stressed that being on the mend isn’t the same as being fully prepared to compete.
“Making progress and feeling good are two different things,” White said. “We have to ensure she feels good, that she has confidence, and that we’re not putting her at risk of aggravating the injury. That’s our main priority.”
Clark has now been out for three consecutive games due to the groin issue, which developed last month and caught the coaching staff off guard. She is still considered day-to-day. Earlier this season, the reigning Rookie of the Year also missed five games with a quad injury.
During her remarkable rookie year, Clark appeared in every game—40 in total—while leading the WNBA in assists, setting numerous records, and contributing to record-breaking league viewership and merchandise sales.
So far in her second season, Clark has appeared in nine games, averaging 18.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per contest, all while remaining a key figure for the Fever.
Despite her absence, Indiana defeated the Lynx decisively, winning 74-59 and claiming their first Commissioner’s Cup championship. The team was powered by strong performances from Natasha Howard and Aliyah Boston, who each recorded double-doubles.
The Fever are now 4-4 in games without Clark in the lineup. Supporters are hopeful she will be ready in time for the WNBA All-Star Game on July 19, which will be held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Clark led fan voting for the event.
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