The Indiana Fever enter Wednesday night’s matchup against the Portland Fire at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with a 2-2 record.
Indiana has been fueled by a stellar start to the 2026 season from superstar guard Caitlin Clark, who is averaging 24.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game.
Advertisement
However, Clark appeared on the injury report leading up to the game and was ultimately ruled out by Fever head coach Stephanie White because of a lingering back issue that has required multiple in-game adjustments this season — something both Clark and White have largely downplayed publicly.
According to Fever beat reporter Scott Agness, the decision to sit Clark on Wednesday was part of “a strategic management plan for the season.”
“She’s healthy, we’re not managing anything,” White said. “This is just a back issue that we want to make sure we give the time to be ready.”
More news: Former Lottery Pick Named WNBA’s Best Offseason Addition Amid Career Revival
More news: Angel Reese’s Atlanta Dream Home Opener Delivers Record WNBA Audience
Advertisement
Clark appeared in just 13 games last season after suffering a season-ending groin injury, so it was always likely the Fever would take a cautious approach in ramping her back into full basketball form.
Not to mention, Wednesday’s matchup marks Indiana’s fourth game in eight days. The Fever also play again Friday night against the Golden State Valkyries before getting nearly a full week off, with their next game not coming until the following Thursday.
More news: Caitlin Clark Reacts to Exciting Off-Court Announcement
Related Articles
