Fever face uncertainty as Clark exits with back injury
Caitlin Clark, who has managed a back ailment throughout the 2026 WNBA season, left the game midway through the third quarter against the Mercury.
Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White confirmed on Wednesday night that there is no current update regarding the condition of star guard Caitlin Clark, who sustained a back injury during the team’s loss to the Phoenix Mercury. Clark exited midway through the third quarter and did not return to the floor, leaving the Fever to navigate the remainder of the contest without their primary playmaker.
The injury occurred during a second-quarter three-point attempt, where Clark appeared to tweak her back after being fouled by Mercury forward Valeriane Ayayi. She fell to the ground and was observed rubbing her back as she stood up. This incident followed an earlier moment in the first quarter where Clark had walked into the tunnel and returned to the bench wearing a supportive wrap around her back.
Despite the discomfort, Clark remained in the game long enough to finish with 19 points, eight assists, and one steal. She shot 5-of-9 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc. However, the loss underscores the physical toll the 2026 WNBA season has taken on the superstar, who has been battling a back ailment throughout the campaign.
Entering Wednesday’s match, Clark had been listed on the Fever’s day-before injury report as probable with a back ailment for each of the past 13 Indiana games. The recurring nature of the injury has forced the coaching staff to prepare for roster adjustments, with White emphasising that players such as Ty Harris and Raven Johnson must be ready for increased minutes.
Following the game, White stated that the priority is ensuring Clark’s health over the long season. "As far as adjustments, it's like next player up," White said, noting that the team must collectively take on more responsibility. The Fever are scheduled to practice on Friday ahead of a home game against the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday, with the team’s availability for these upcoming fixtures remaining undetermined.
After the Sparks matchup, Indiana will have a full week off before returning to action on Sunday, 5 July, with a road game against the Las Vegas Aces. The specific severity of Clark’s latest back issue remains unknown, as the team has provided no further medical details since her departure from the court.
