The Indiana Fever’s rivalry with the Phoenix Mercury intensified this week. Indiana opened the two-game set with a victory on Monday before falling 111-109 on Wednesday in one of the most tense games of the 2026 WNBA season so far.
Caitlin Clark endured multiple hard hits on Wednesday, including a non-called play in which Alyssa Thomas made contact with Clark’s throat that was later upgraded by the WNBA to a Flagrant 2, resulting in a one-game suspension for Thomas.
The Fever suffered an even bigger blow when Clark exited Wednesday’s game in the third quarter with a back injury after playing just 20 minutes. Earlier in the game, she absorbed the hit from Thomas before landing awkwardly on a three-point attempt after Valeriane Ayayi closed into her landing space. Clark finished with 19 points and eight assists before exiting the court.
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Ahead of Saturday’s home game against the Los Angeles Sparks, Fever fans were dealt with concerning news when head coach Stephanie White confirmed that Clark has officially been ruled out with a back injury and the effects of the blow to her throat.
According to IndyStar’s Chloe Peterson, White said there is “no indication” how long Clark will be sidelined but noted the Fever’s upcoming week-long break provides a good opportunity for treatment. Peterson also reported that 13 of Indiana’s 14 players participated in Friday’s practice, with Clark the lone absence, while White confirmed Ty Harris will replace her in the starting lineup.
Clark’s absence is a significant setback for Indiana. Through 16 games this season, the two-time All-Star is averaging 21.2 points, 8.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds while leading one of the league’s most productive offenses. She also recently became the first player in WNBA history to record six consecutive games with at least 20 points and five assists.
The Fever enter Saturday’s matchup with a 10-8 record, and sit seventh in the WNBA standings. After dropping Wednesday’s game to Phoenix, Indiana will look to bounce back against the Sparks while awaiting further clarity on the status of its franchise star.
