The Indiana Fever entered this WNBA season with high hopes. After a busy offseason that saw them add experienced players like Sophie Cunningham and DeWanna Bonner to their roster, many believed the Fever were ready for a breakout year.
But the journey has been anything but smooth. The absence of Caitlin Clark has loomed large over the team, contributing to their current 4-5 record. However, there is finally a glimmer of hope for Fever fans: Clark is set to suit up for Satuday’s matchup against the red-hot New York Liberty.
But her return comes with a major ultimatum she recently revealed.
Caitlin Clark Didn’t Want to Contribute to the Team Halfheartedly
In a pregame interview ahead of the Fever’s highly anticipated clash with the Liberty, Clark opened up about the terms she laid out for her return to the court.
The star guard made it clear to the Fever front office that she would not return until she could play without any minute restrictions.
“Not that I’ve been told. I don’t anticipate a certain level, I’m not a huge fan of minute restrictions, I think they’re silly. I told them, I don’t want to come back unless I’m 100% full go. Why would I be out there to play 20 minutes?”
“I’m out there to win and give everything I have for this team, so my rotations might just be a little shorter to keep me a little fresher. Haven’t played a game in 3 weeks now, so my lungs might be a little bit different for myself,” said Clark during the interview.
Caitlin Clark says pregame that she doesn’t anticipate being on a minutes restriction against the Liberty:
“I’m not a huge fan of minutes restrictions, I think they’re silly. I told them, ‘I don’t want to come back unless I’m full go.’” pic.twitter.com/JXPchLtxc2
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) June 14, 2025
Clark’s cautious but firm stance came after she missed the last five games due to a strained left quadricep, an injury she suffered during a game against the Liberty on May 24. Before her injury, Clark was putting up impressive numbers, averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 assists and six rebounds per game.
Her dynamic playmaking and scoring ability were crucial for the Fever, and her absence was clearly felt. The team struggled without her, managing to win only two of their five games during that stretch.
Credit is due to veterans Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston, who stepped up and delivered strong performances to keep the Fever afloat.
Despite Clark’s return, the Fever face a daunting task against the Liberty, who have been nothing short of dominant this season. The Liberty currently boast a perfect 9-0 record, making them the top team in the Eastern Conference.
Led by stars Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, who are averaging 17.9 and 19.0 points per game respectively, New York poses a significant challenge for Indiana. The Fever will need every ounce of Clark’s offensive firepower and leadership to stand a chance.