Caitlin Clark misses game for first time in six years with leg issue
For the first time in six years, Caitlin Clark missed a game.
The Fever star was ruled out for Saturday’s preseason game against the Mystics, which Indiana won, 79-74, in overtime.
Clark had played every game — preseason included — for the past six seasons — both for Indiana as a WNBA rookie and at the University of Iowa.
But on Friday, Indiana’s injury report included Clark dealing with a left leg injury, which she called “just a little tightness” Saturday morning, when she went through her typical gameday routine.


during the game against the Washington Mystics
during a WNBA preseason game on May 3, 2025 at
Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NBAE via Getty Images
After the decision to sit Clark was made, Fever head coach Stephanie White said the team was being cautious, noting it was a preseason game.
“The biggest thing is we have to think long term,” White said. “We have to make sure we’re not putting Caitlin at risk for injury. We’re not putting our team in a position where we’re thinking short term and not long term. It’s a long season- four more games than last season- so we want to make sure we’re extra cautious and put her health first and foremost.”
The Fever have another preseason game Sunday and that one figures to be more important to Clark, since it will be played at her alma mater at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, at the University of Iowa against the Brazilian national team.