Caitlin Clark Injury Update: Fever Star Nearing Full Recovery After Groin and Ankle Setback

Caitlin Clark’s recovery from dual injuries is progressing steadily. Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White confirmed that the rookie guard continues to train during the postseason, showing encouraging signs after a right groin injury complicated by a secondary right ankle issue.

White shared the update on the Fever Insider podcast, noting that Clark has been cleared for partial basketball activity. Although she hasn’t resumed full 5×5 play, she is participating in 2×2 and 3×3 sessions and is reportedly “making great strides.”

Caitlin Clark Injury Update: Encouraging Progress for the Fever Star

Clark’s recovery timeline has been closely followed by fans since her season ended early. The 22-year-old guard played only 13 games before injuries forced her to the sidelines. It began with tightness in her left quad that evolved into a left groin strain, followed by the right groin and ankle complications later in the summer.

During her limited action, Clark averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds — impressive rookie numbers that hinted at her potential dominance. Unfortunately, her final appearance came on July 15, with a subsequent ankle injury on August 7 halting her comeback attempt. Since then, she has remained with the team, serving as a supportive bench presence throughout the remainder of the Fever’s season.

Coach White emphasized that the postseason recovery period gives Clark flexibility to focus on gradual improvement without rushing. “She’s building toward full 5×5 basketball,” White said. “It’s week-by-week, and she’s responding really well.”

Clark Eyes USA Basketball Return in 2026

Looking ahead, Clark hopes to join the USA Basketball Women’s National Team for the FIBA World Cup qualifiers in March 2026. Training camp is expected to begin in early March in San Juan, Puerto Rico, before the World Cup in Berlin later that year (September 4–13, 2026).

Clark wasn’t part of the 2024 Olympic roster in Paris, but her inclusion in next year’s qualifiers could mark her official return to international play. For now, there’s no indication she plans to compete in the upcoming seasons of Unrivaled or AU Pro Basketball — a move that supports her long-term focus on full recovery and readiness for the WNBA’s 2026 campaign.

What This Means for Indiana Fever Fans

For the Fever, Clark’s potential return to full health is critical. Her leadership and scoring ability transformed Indiana’s offensive identity early in the season. Her absence, however, exposed the team’s reliance on her playmaking. A fully healthy Clark in 2026 could immediately elevate the Fever’s postseason chances.

Caitlin Clark’s injury update offers a sense of optimism — she’s not rushing back but progressing steadily, positioning herself for a strong comeback next season.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Caitlin Clark injury update?

Clark is recovering from right groin and ankle injuries. She’s now practicing 2×2 and 3×3 basketball but hasn’t yet returned to full 5×5 play.

Q2: When will Caitlin Clark return to the court?

She’s expected to be fully cleared by early 2026 and could appear in USA Basketball World Cup qualifiers in March.

Q3: What injuries did Caitlin Clark suffer this season?

Clark dealt with left groin tightness, later a right groin injury, and a secondary ankle injury that ended her 2025 campaign.

Q4: Will Caitlin Clark play in Unrivaled or AU Pro Basketball?

No. Clark has reportedly chosen to focus on recovery and preparation for the 2026 WNBA season.

Q5: How did Caitlin Clark perform before her injury?

She averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds in 13 games, showing elite potential as a rookie.