Indiana Fever Coach Speaks Out About Caitlin Clark Injury, Shares Concerning Long-Term Update That Should Worry Everyone

Caitlin Clark and Stephanie White (Photo Via Imagn Images)

Caitlin Clark’s durability has never been in question…until now.

The Indiana Fever star, who hadn’t missed a single game since high school, is sidelined for at least two weeks with a left quad strain. And while she walked off Saturday’s 90-88 loss to the New York Liberty without visible signs of injury, the update came as a jolt to fans and teammates alike.

On Monday, the Fever confirmed Clark’s injury and her upcoming absence. Head coach Stephanie White addressed the media during practice and made it clear she’s relieved Clark spoke up about the discomfort.

“Sometimes great players don’t tell you when they’re hurting,” White said. “I’m glad that she did because we need to nip this in the bud.”

Clark’s Absence Raises Long-Term Questions

Caitlin Clark (Grace Smith/IndyStar-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
While Clark’s competitors admire her drive and refusal to sit, White emphasized that pushing through pain isn’t always the answer. “Obviously, she’s a competitor and wants to play. Obviously, everyone wants to watch her play,” she said. “But for me, it’s maintaining perspective.”

White stressed the importance of protecting Clark’s long-term health, especially early in the season. “We take care of it, don’t over-push, don’t over-exert,” she added. “Making sure that we take the long-game approach to this so that we’re not having lingering issues throughout the course of the season.”

Clark had played all four games for the Fever this year, averaging 19 points, 9.3 assists, and six rebounds. Her shooting numbers have dipped slightly from last season, with field goal accuracy at 40.3 percent and free throws dropping to 75 percent from her usual 90.6.

Off the court, the injury could also impact the league’s momentum. Clark has fueled a major surge in WNBA viewership and merchandise sales. According to Sports Illustrated, she’s responsible for 26.5 percent of the league’s total economic activity this year.

Ticket prices say it all. Last season’s Fever vs. Sky game saw resale prices near $165. Now, with Caitlin Clark out, seats are as low as $35. The Fever next face the Mystics, hoping to stay afloat until Clark’s possible return on June 10 against the Dream.