he Indiana Fever’s 2025 WNBA season has been anything but smooth, and much of their struggle can be traced back to one critical factor: the absence of star guard Caitlin Clark. Now in her second season, Clark who entered the league with massive expectations and fanfare—has found herself battling an uncharacteristic string of injuries, a stark contrast to her previously spotless health record in both college and her rookie WNBA year.
Clark has been sidelined for the majority of the season due to a lingering groin injury that has significantly limited her time on the court. The injury has not only impacted her individual performance but also disrupted the rhythm and chemistry of the entire Fever squad. With Clark out, the offense has lacked its dynamic core, and the excitement that she brings—both on and off the court has been noticeably missed.
The team’s adversity didn’t stop there. First-year head coach Stephanie White has had to navigate a roster plagued by injury setbacks beyond just Clark. Key players such as Sophie Cunningham, Sydney Colson, and Aari McDonald have all suffered season-ending injuries, compounding the challenges for a team still finding its identity. Cunningham, in particular, brought a competitive edge and veteran presence that the Fever sorely miss during crunch time.
Just as things appeared to be looking up for Clark—who had reportedly been making progress in her groin rehabilitation—another setback emerged. During a team practice in Phoenix, Clark twisted her left ankle. The incident, later diagnosed as a bone bruise, raised new concerns among fans and analysts. However, journalist Chloe Peterson reported that the injury is considered “very minor” and is not expected to delay her return timeline.
While this ankle issue may not be serious on its own, it marks the fourth injury Clark has dealt with this season. That level of wear and tear is deeply concerning, especially for a player whose game depends heavily on speed, agility, and explosiveness. It’s a far cry from her college days at Iowa and her standout rookie year, where durability was one of her strengths.
As Clark continues her recovery, Indiana Fever is left grappling with a thinned roster, fewer veteran leaders, and limited depth in key moments. The franchise, once rejuvenated by the arrival of a generational talent, now finds itself struggling to stay afloat in a tightly contested league.
There’s no question about Caitlin Clark’s potential and what she brings to the court. But until she returns to full health—and stays there—the Fever’s hopes of turning the season around remain on shaky ground.