Caitlin Clark made a name for herself in the Basketball world after a stellar rookie season with Indiana Fever, She not only did for her team but helped the sport gain new viewers taking WNBA to another level. According to Forbes WNBA was one of the growing sports and future is all but shining for the newly approved fan favorite sports. WNBA Season 2 is on its way and preseason season games have started. Caitlin Clark missed Fever's first game against Mystics, missing a game for the first time in Six years.
The Indiana Fever rookie missed Saturday’s preseason clash against the Washington Mystics, marking her first absence from a basketball game—preseason or otherwise—since 2018. Despite her absence, the Fever managed to edge out the Mystics in an overtime thriller, securing a 79-74 win.
A Streak Comes to an End
Clark, known for her ironwoman streak dating back to her college days at the University of Iowa, had played in every game over the past six seasons. That included all preseason matchups during her time in college and now as a rookie in the WNBA.
However, ahead of Saturday’s game, Indiana listed Clark as questionable with a left leg injury. The 23-year-old addressed the issue earlier that morning, explaining, “Just a little tightness. I’ll go through all our warmups and everything — and then they’ll decide if I’m good to go or not.”
A Precautionary Call from Fever Management
Ultimately, the Fever chose to keep Clark on the sidelines. Head coach Stephanie White emphasized that the decision was made with the bigger picture in mind.
“The biggest thing is we have to think long term,” White said. “We have to make sure we’re not putting Caitlin at risk for injury. We’re not putting our team in a position where we’re thinking short term and not long term. It’s a long season—four more games than last season—so we want to make sure we’re extra cautious and put her health first and foremost.”
Though Clark participated in practice sessions during the week, the back-to-back nature of the weekend’s schedule likely influenced the decision. Indiana is scheduled to play another preseason game Sunday—this one at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Clark’s collegiate home—against the Brazilian national team. That matchup, given its sentimental significance, may carry more weight for the Fever’s star guard.
Eyeing a Return vs. Atlanta
As for her return to the court, Clark has been listed as “questionable” for Indiana’s upcoming preseason fixture against the Atlanta Dream on May 10. While nothing is confirmed, the signs point toward her likely participation in that game.
Last season, Clark made headlines for leading the nation in assists (8.4 per game) and averaging 19.2 points. Her presence will be vital for the Fever as they prepare for a packed WNBA calendar.