Caitlin Clark Approaches Return to Action
Caitlin Clark, the rising star of the Indiana Fever, is making strides toward rejoining her team after suffering from quad tension on May 26. Coach Steph White updated the media on Monday, indicating that Clark and other key players would begin to “ramp up” their activities and participate in some practices.
“We’re taking a cautious approach. It’s all about being smart and deliberate in getting her back on the court,” White explained.
Since Clark’s injury, the Fever has managed a 2-2 record but will face the Atlanta Dream without her on Tuesday. This marks an extended absence for Clark, which is notable considering she has not missed a game in her collegiate or professional career.
Over the weekend, medical staff reassessed Clark’s condition. Originally, the timeline had suggested she’d be sidelined for about two weeks. Similar is the case for teammate Sophie Cunningham, who is also returning from an ankle injury sustained on May 30. She participated in limited practice on Monday, which is promising.
White expressed the importance of gradually reintegrating both players. “It’s key to determine what being back on the floor looks like—running drills is one thing, but getting back into game rhythm is a different challenge,” she remarked.
Clark and Cunningham both took part in some practices open to the media recently, which seemed to show progress, much to the coach’s relief. White mentioned that the team is being selective about when to push their players during practice sessions.
“They’ve been out for quite a while, and it’s essential for them to ease back into the routine and prepare adequately for our upcoming games,” White added.
While specific details regarding when Clark and Cunningham will return to competitive play have not been disclosed, the Fever’s next game after Tuesday is on Saturday against the New York Liberty, who currently boast an unbeaten record.
In related news, the Liberty is also facing injuries, particularly with star center Jonquel Jones suffering an ankle issue in a recent match against the Washington Mystics. Her availability for the upcoming game against the Chicago Sky remains uncertain.
