Fever star Caitlyn Clark is expected to return on Saturday, despite a recent setback.
Clark has missed the last five games due to a strained quad but has been gradually making her way back. Fever’s coach, Stephanie White, believes it will be beneficial for her to play in the Commission Cup matchup against New York.
“Today I felt better than yesterday in terms of movement and balance. She seems to be getting back into her rhythm and timing,” White told reporters after practice on Friday. “Unless there’s a setback, she’ll be ready to go.”
Clark is the leading scorer for the Fever, averaging 19 points per game, and also contributes significantly with 9.3 assists. Additionally, she leads the team’s guards in rebounding, pulling down six boards per game.
The Fever currently hold a 4-5 record this season, having lost three of their last five games in Clark’s absence.
In good news for the Fever, guard Sophie Cunningham is also set to return on Saturday, as mentioned by White.
Cunningham has been out for the last three games after aggravating an ankle injury from the preseason finale.
“Sophie looks really good. Her timing was right,” White remarked. “It’s crucial to get back into the rhythm of the game.”
Cunningham has averaged 6.5 points and 3.3 rebounds this season, but her shooting percentage sits at 36.4% in four games.
With both Clark and Cunningham back in the lineup, the Fever are feeling reinvigorated.
However, the team will continue to play without Dewana Bonner, who is away for personal reasons.
Saturday will mark the second meeting this season between the Fever and the Liberty.
A couple of weeks ago, the Liberty had a narrow escape against Indiana, nearly losing after giving up a double-digit lead in the second half.
Natasha Cloud made a pivotal play during that game, leading to some controversy. There was a disagreement on whether Cloud had fouled Clark during a crucial moment, with Cloud feeling the officials made the right call.
The Liberty are enjoying a remarkable start to their season, winning games by an average of 19 points and setting numerous records along the way.
New York remains unbeaten, with the recent loss of the Lynx to the Arashi. But Clark and the Fever are looking to change that narrative this Saturday.
