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2h ago

Caitlin Clark Ruled Out Again as Fever Weigh Playoff Push Against Long-Term Health

Team protocols require Clark to complete multiple full-speed, contact practices before any clearance to play.

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Sparks head coach Lynne Roberts and forward Dearica Hamby react on the sideline during the second half against the Phoenix Mercury on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/SCNG)
Rookie Caitlin Clark's injury keeps her off the court for 16 games, prompting Lisa Leslie to recommend the Fever prioritize her long-term health over a possible return this season.
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Overview

  • Caitlin Clark will miss her 17th straight game Friday against the Sparks with a right groin injury and still has no timetable to return.
  • Coach Stephanie White says Clark has rejoined walkthroughs and non-contact drills but must "live in practice" and handle contact over multiple sessions before she can play.
  • The Indianapolis Star reported Clark sustained a mild left-ankle bone bruise on Aug. 7 during an individual workout, a setback that slowed her ramp-up.
  • WNBA great Lisa Leslie publicly urged Indiana not to play Clark again this season to protect her long-term health, echoing a growing chorus of analysts.
  • Indiana is 20-18 and in sixth place with six games left as Los Angeles plans for her absence; ESPN’s tracker now estimates a Sept. 7 return, and some models slightly favor the Sparks on Friday.