The Indiana Fever finally broke through after weeks of frustration. But as they prepare for another crucial matchup, their biggest star remains stuck on the sideline, and the timing couldn’t be worse for their playoff push.
Will Caitlin Clark Return Against the Chicago Sky?
Unfortunately for Fever fans, the answer is no. According to the latest injury report from ESPN, Clark has officially been ruled out of the July 27 matchup against the Chicago Sky.
The star guard is still recovering from a right groin injury she sustained during the Fever’s July 15 win over the Connecticut Sun. Late in that game, after dishing a pass to Mitchell, Clark visibly winced and grabbed her leg, then slowly made her way to the bench.
Before her injury, Clark was averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and five rebounds per game. She has not played since the Sun matchup, adding to an already challenging season filled with multiple injury setbacks. Clark has also missed considerable time this season due to a left quad strain and left groin issues.
I swear Caitlin Clark is CURSED in the last moments of games. Appears she reaggravated her groin injury on this play. pic.twitter.com/kzBaJ8TDvO
— Cro (@The_Cro_Show) July 16, 2025
Adding to the uncertainty, the Fever organization recently released an official statement noting that there is currently no set timetable for Clark’s return.
“Clark will continue working with the Fever medical team on her recovery and rehabilitation, with the priority on her long-term health and well-being. There is no timetable available for Clark’s return, and no additional details will be provided at this time. Any further updates will be shared as they become available,” the statement read.
However, ESPN’s WNBA injury list offers a bit of optimism, suggesting that Clark might return by August 12, just in time for a pivotal matchup against the Dallas Wings.
ESPN has caitlin’s return date listed as august 12 pic.twitter.com/YPD6FFYvQi
— cc akgae (@clrkszn) July 26, 2025
How Do the Sky’s Injury Problems Compare to Indiana’s?
The Chicago Sky are dealing with an even more depleted roster. Several key players are listed on the injury list:
- Michaela Onyenwere: Questionable (Knee issue)
- Hailey Van Lith: Questionable (Ankle Issue)
- Moriah Jefferson: Out (Leg Issue)
- Ariel Atkins: Out (Leg Issue)
- Angel Reese: Questionable (Back issue)
- Courtney Vandersloot: Out
With a struggling 7-17 record, the Sky are having a worse season than the Fever. After a rough midseason stretch, Indiana finally showed signs of stability on July 24 when they defeated the Las Vegas Aces. With the 80-70 victory, they improved their season record to 13-12.
This will be the third meeting between the Fever and the Sky this season, with Indiana winning the first two. With Chicago’s roster in disarray, the Fever will look to capitalize once more.
Meanwhile, Clark’s absence puts additional pressure on the remaining healthy players. With Clark sidelined, it was Mitchell and Natasha Howard who rose to the occasion against Las Vegas, putting up 21 and 18 points, respectively. To keep the momentum alive, Indiana will need major performances from Mitchell, who’s averaging 19.6 points per game, and also from Aliyah Boston, who is averaging 15.4 points per game.
