Introduction to the Injury
Indianapolis (AP) — Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will miss at least two weeks after straining her left quadriceps during Saturday’s 90-88 loss to the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty.
Coach Stephanie White told reporters Monday she wasn’t sure exactly when Clark was injured but was told after the game she had “something going on with her leg.” An MRI confirmed the diagnosis. Clark’s absence could wind up being a big blow for one of the league’s title favorites.
The Impact of the Injury
“Obviously, she wants to play and, obviously, everyone wants to see her play,” White said following Monday’s practice. “But for me, it’s about maintaining perspective. It’s making sure that we address this that doesn’t affect the long term, that we take care of it and don’t overpush, don’t overexert.”
Clark was not seen with her teammates at the end of practice and was not available for comment. Team officials said additional updates will be provided as circumstances warrant.
Clark’s Career and Previous Injuries
It’s the first time in Clark’s career she’s missed a game after playing in all 40 games and both playoff games last season and the first four games this year. She did miss Indiana’s first preseason game this year with a leg injury.
Last season’s WNBA rookie of the year finished with 18 points and 10 assists Saturday but lost the ball on Indiana’s final possession as she tried to take a 3-pointer that could have won the game in the waning seconds.
Upcoming Games
Afterward, White complained that New York was not called for a foul. Clark is averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 assists and 6.0 rebounds this season as the Fever have opened with a 2-2 mark. Indiana returns to action Wednesday at Washington and Clark is expected to miss that game as well as home contests against Connecticut and Washington and Indiana’s rematch at Chicago on June 7 against Clark’s rival, Angel Reese.
Replacement and Team Strategy
The league’s top drawing player could miss additional time, but the Fever seem more capable of winning without Clark this season after using the offseason to bring in a large group of veteran players with championship experience.
It’s unclear just how the Fever will try to replace Clark’s play-making ability.
“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 Achievements
Clark set a single-season league record last season with 337 assists after leading the Iowa Hawkeyes to back-to-back national runner-up finishes in college.
Conclusion
Caitlin Clark’s injury is a significant setback for the Indiana Fever, but the team is well-equipped to handle her absence. With a strong roster and experienced players, the Fever can continue to compete at a high level even without their star player. The team’s focus on maintaining perspective and taking care of Clark’s injury will be crucial in ensuring her long-term health and success.
FAQs
- Q: How long will Caitlin Clark be out with her injury?
A: Clark is expected to miss at least two weeks with a left quad strain. - Q: What was the nature of Clark’s injury?
A: Clark strained her left quadriceps during Saturday’s game against the New York Liberty. - Q: How will the Fever replace Clark’s play-making ability?
A: It’s unclear how the Fever will replace Clark’s play-making ability, but the team has a strong roster with experienced players. - Q: What is Clark’s current status with the team?
A: Clark is not practicing with the team and is expected to miss several upcoming games.
