Caitlin Clark, the star guard of the Indiana Fever, will miss tonight's WNBA clash as she continues to recover from a right groin strain sustained in mid-July. The 23-year-old, who had never missed a game in her collegiate or rookie professional career, has been sidelined for 11 consecutive matches in the 2025 season.
The Fever have not provided an official timetable for her return, leaving fans and analysts questioning when she will be back on the court.
Injury Timeline and Current Status
Clark's 2025 campaign has been disrupted by a series of muscle injuries. Earlier in the year, she suffered a left quadriceps strain, followed by a left groin injury. In mid-July, she sustained a right groin strain during a game, forcing her out of action once more.
The injury has limited her to just 13 appearances in the Fever's 32 games so far this season. Speaking on Monday, 11 August, head coach Stephanie White said Clark is 'progressing' in her rehabilitation but is still not participating in team practices.
As reported by ESPN, she began full‑court running last week but 'still is not practicing with the Fever'. Reports from league insiders suggest that her absence could extend for 'several more weeks', with her return dependent on medical clearance and full recovery.
Fever head coach Stephanie White shared an update on Caitlin Clark's injury:
— WISH-TV News (@WISHNews8) August 11, 2025
"She's been able to get a little bit more in her full court running with all of her body weight. It's really building up from doing minimal to then building some endurance." pic.twitter.com/43qUw45f5H
Clark Speaks Out on Frustration and Recovery
During a recent appearance on the Bird's Eye View podcast, Clark admitted that this extended lay-off has been a new and difficult experience. 'I have never been through anything like this', she said, adding that the mental and emotional challenge of being sidelined has been significant.
She credited her mother with reminding her to prioritise long-term health over rushing back into competition. Clark also spoke of her sense of responsibility to her teammates and the Fever fanbase, stating that she wants to ensure she is fully fit before stepping back onto the court.
Fever Coping Without Their Star
The Indiana Fever have had to adapt to life without their headline player, as well as deal with further injury setbacks. Guards Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald have both suffered season-ending injuries, Colson with a torn left ACL and McDonald with a broken right foot.
In response, the team signed veteran guard Odyssey Sims on a hardship contract to bolster backcourt depth. As reported by Swish Appeal, Kelsey Mitchell has assumed the primary playmaking role, recently delivering a standout performance with 26 points, 8 assists and just one turnover in a 92-70 victory over the Chicago Sky.
Despite their depleted roster, the Fever have remained competitive, winning eight of their last 12 games and staying in the playoff race.
The Return Question Remains Open
With the regular season entering a critical phase, the uncertainty surrounding Clark's comeback is drawing considerable attention. While her rehabilitation is ongoing, there is no confirmed date for her return to competitive action.
According to the Hindustan Times, some reports suggest she could remain sidelined for several more weeks, with the exact timing dependent on medical clearance and full fitness.
The Fever's playoff hopes could receive a major boost if Clark is able to return before the end of the regular season. Until then, the team will continue to rely on their current line-up to maintain momentum and secure a post-season berth.
