The Indiana Fever will be without their star guard Caitlin Clark for the remainder of the 2025 WNBA season. Clark confirmed that she will not return to the court this year after suffering a right groin injury during a game on July 15. The decision marks a pivotal moment for both her and the team.
At just 23, the 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick has already made a massive impact in the league. Before the injury, she averaged 16.5 points, 5 rebounds, and a league-leading 8.8 assists across 13 games. She also played every game throughout her impressive college career at Iowa and her 2024 rookie season, making this her first missed spell.
It’s been a turbulent season injury-wise for Clark. She initially suffered a left quadriceps strain during training camp and dealt with additional left groin issues. Her right groin injury occurred in the final minutes of the July 15 game against the Sun. During her rehab, she also developed a bone bruise in her left ankle—complications that ultimately led to this difficult decision.
Clark addressed fans and supporters in a heartfelt statement shared on social media:
“I had hoped to share a better update, but I will not be returning to play this season … disappointed isn’t a big enough word to describe how I am feeling … the way the fans continued to show up for me, and for the Fever, brought me so much joy … I am so proud of how this team has only gotten stronger through adversity this year. Now it’s time to close out the season and claim our spot in the playoffs.”
Fever GM and COO Amber Cox emphasized that Clark had done everything possible to come back, but the team must prioritize her long-term health. There wasn’t enough time left in the regular season for a safe and effective return. The organization remains focused on her full recovery with hopes of seeing her back stronger in 2026.
The news sparked support for Clark from across the sports world. NBA superstar LeBron James offered an encouraging message:
“Minor setback for a MAJOR COMEBACK!! Rest up, get healthy and be YOU!”
Despite this setback, the Fever are still in playoff contention—sitting in eighth place with a 21–20 record and just one-and-a-half games ahead of the Sparks, with three games remaining. They face the daunting task of holding their ground without their biggest star and several other injured players.
What This Means
| Focus Area | Detail |
|---|---|
| Clark’s Impact So Far | Averaged 16.5 pts, 8.8 ast, 5 reb over 13 games in 2025. First missed time after flawless college and rookie seasons. |
| Injury Timeline | Started with left quad and groin issues; major right groin injury on July 15; rehab hindered by ankle bone bruise. |
| Team Response | Clark’s statement reflects deep disappointment but also gratitude and confidence in the team’s resilience. |
| Health Over Now | Team decides not to risk return—even a partial one—for health; 2026 is now the target. |
| League Support | LeBron and others voiced support, highlighting her importance to the game. |
| Playoff Picture | Fever remain in the hunt but face crucial weeks without their leading scorer and with a depleted backcourt. |
Clark’s season-ending injury brings a premature close to what was shaping up to be another standout season. She steps aside with grace, having shown immense drive and character. The real test now shifts to the Fever—to carry their momentum, rally behind the players on the roster and prove that their foundations aren’t centered on just one star.
