Stephanie White hopeful for Caitlin Clark return before end of regular season

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — “The hope is that she’s back.”

That’s how Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White responded Sunday when asked if All-Star Caitlin Clark would be back before the end of the regular season, which is just 23 days away.

Clark has been sidelined for over a month after injuring her right groin at the end of July 15’s win against the Connecticut Sun. She’s missed 13 straight games, bringing her total up to 22 after dealing with two other lower body injuries earlier in the season.

“The most important thing is that she’s 100% when she’s ready to come back,” White said before Sunday’s game in Connecticut. “The timing is never ideal, but the long-term health and wellness is the most important thing.”

The Fever are focused on continued patience. Clark rushed to return earlier in the season after her first two injuries. This time around, the team wants to ensure she’s at her best when she comes back.

“I think the experience throughout the year, trying to come back quickly, taught her that she needs to make sure she’s 100%,” White said. “Yes, every competitor wants to play. But at the same time, doing it the right way and making sure that after we’ve had a couple of setbacks that we’re prioritizing her long-term health and wellness is the most important thing.”

After Sunday’s overtime win against the Sun, the Fever are now 11-11 without Clark on the floor. They’re currently sixth in the WNBA standings with nine games left in the regular season.

Clark was averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game in 13 games that she has been able to play this season.

Next up, the Fever host the Minnesota Lynx — the No. 1 team in the league — Friday, Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

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