Caitlin Clark is back in Iowa. But this time, there’s a twist. The former college sensation returned to her old stomping grounds, but fans were hit with a shocker when the Indiana Fever ruled her out just before Saturday’s exhibition opener due to a leg injury.
The hype was real, the seats were packed, and the star attraction? Sidelined. Naturally, one question persisted: Will Clark suit up today (May 4) against the Brazil national team?
Indiana Fever Hold Back Caitlin Clark on Saturday, Eyes Set on Sunday Return
Clark was originally listed as questionable heading into the matchup against the Washington Mystics.
She even went through warmups before tip-off, leaving the fans thinking she might suit up and play. But right before the game tipped off, Indiana officially announced she wouldn’t play. The team took the cautious route with their prized rookie, choosing long-term safety over short-term thrill.
Veteran Sydney Colson started in her place, and Indiana still managed to grind out a 79-74 overtime win. Cunningham dropped a game-high 21 points off the bench — a great outing for the new Fever star.
Today Caitlin Clark plays basketball in Carver Hawkeye Arena for the first time in 404 days pic.twitter.com/GKDHZZoSK1
— Clark Report (@CClarkReport)
Clark, though? She didn’t just sit around. She was active on the bench, firing off feedback and communicating with teammates. Head coach Stephanie White made it a point to highlight how involved Clark was throughout the game.
White confirmed Clark made “a lot of progress” over the past 24 hours and hinted she could be good to go for Sunday’s game against Brazil. The team plans to reassess based on how her leg responds to Saturday’s workout.
Clark’s Durability History Speaks for Itself
Clark’s track record with injuries is practically spotless. The former Iowa superstar never missed a single game across her four college seasons. That’s 139 straight starts, no skips, and no breaks.
And she wasn’t just showing up either. Clark averaged 34.8 minutes per game, posting insane stat lines with 28.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.1 boards.
Her transition to the WNBA last season was just as durable. She suited up for all 40 regular-season games and both playoff appearances for the Indiana Fever.
Her current injury, however, has been the first red flag since she went pro. Considering how vocal the team has been about managing it carefully, fans can relax a bit.
With her potential return lined up for Sunday’s clash, fans in Iowa could be in for one emotional full-circle moment. From college courts to pro hardwood, Clark is stepping back on Iowa soil in a Fever jersey. And that’s a storyline no one wants to miss.
Maybe the weight lifting contributed to the leg injury…?