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last mo.

Caitlin Clark Shut Down for Season as Fever Lock In No. 6 Seed, Star Stays Locked In From Bench

Indiana now leans on its depth for the playoffs, with Clark prioritizing long-term recovery.

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Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull (10) and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) laugh from the bench Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Minnesota Lynx at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Indiana Fever defeated the Minnesota Lynx, 83-72.
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Overview

  • Caitlin Clark confirmed she will not return in 2025 after multiple lower‑body injuries, including quad and groin strains and a left ankle bone bruise suffered during rehab.
  • The Fever clinched the No. 6 seed and capped the regular season with an 83–72 win over the Lynx, as Clark remained engaged by calling timeouts, huddling teammates and even gifting ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo and Ryan Ruocco basketballs.
  • Teammate Aliyah Boston and analyst Candace Parker publicly backed the decision to sit Clark, calling it the smart choice for her career after she was limited to 13 games.
  • Indiana’s roster absorbed additional season‑ending injuries to Sydney Colson, Aari McDonald, Sophie Cunningham and Chloe Bibby, prompting short‑term veteran additions such as Odyssey Sims.
  • League and team metrics reflected Clark’s commercial impact, with outlets noting viewership and attendance drops without her, as the Fever advance CRM and marketing efforts with Salesforce to broaden their fan base.