Clark out vs. Liberty; All-Star status uncertain

Caitlin Clark suffered a right groin injury during the final minute of Tuesday's victory over the Connecticut Sun, ruling her out of Wednesday's game against the New York Liberty. Her status for this weekend's All-Star festivities in Indianapolis—where she's slated for Friday's 3-point contest and as a captain in Saturday's All-Star Game—remains uncertain.

Clark experienced the injury while making a bounce pass with 40 seconds left in Tuesday's game, immediately clutching her right thigh. She displayed visible frustration, banging her head against a stanchion and covering her head with a towel on the bench. Fever coach Stephanie White described Clark's emotional reaction as understandable given the recurring setbacks.

Clark underwent imaging on Wednesday, with White characterizing the day-to-day diagnosis as "good news" from a layman's perspective. White emphasized she isn't involved in decisions about Clark's All-Star participation, stating those conversations will be between Clark and her personal team, though the organization will support any outcome.

This marks Clark's 10th missed regular-season game this summer due to injuries, including prior issues with her left quad and groin. She hasn't played more than five consecutive games this season, with two separate two-week absences. White cited the physical toll of Clark's playstyle—frequent explosive movements under defensive pressure—as contributing factors to the injuries.

White reiterated prioritizing Clark's long-term health over immediate returns, noting Indiana's 8-5 record with Clark versus 4-5 without her. The 2024 first-team all-WNBA selection averages 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds. The coach emphasized maintaining Clark's morale through these setbacks while focusing on gradual recovery.