Indiana Fever Fans Receive Disappointing Caitlin Clark News After 4 Games
Caitlin Clark has picked up right where she left off before injuries derailed her 2025 season. In each of her first four games, she has logged 20+ points and five assists, tying the longest such streak to start a season in WNBA history. Clark is averaging 24.3 points and 9.0 assists through four games, and has been running the Fever offense with the authority of a player fully healthy and fully motivated.
Her most complete performance came Sunday against the Seattle Storm where she recorded 21 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds in an 89-78 win that snapped the Indiana Fever's two-game home losing streak.
The Fever currently sit at 2-2 and Wednesday night against the expansion Portland Fire was supposed to be an opportunity to gain some separation. However, Fever fans who were hoping to see Clark in action were dealt some disappointing news before tip-off.
The team announced that Clark has been ruled out with a back issue. According to Fever reporter Scott Agness, it's a strategic load management decision rather than an injury concern, with the team citing the grueling schedule that has seen Indiana play four games in eight days.
Fever guard Caitlin Clark will NOT play tonight vs Portland Fire. I'm told it's part of a strategic management plan for the season.
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) May 20, 2026
Tonight is the Fever's fourth game in eight days.
Clark, who played only 13 games last season due to injuries, is averaging 30.8 minutes per game to start the season. The Fever are clearly being cautious and monitoring her health carefully heading into the meat of the schedule
In Clark's absence, Kelsey Mitchell is expected to take on the primary ball-handling and scoring responsibility, with Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull providing perimeter support. Aliyah Boston missed Sunday's game against the Storm but is available to play Wednesday.
Tip-off between the Fever and Fire is set for 7 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Related: Fever GM Left in Disbelief by Caitlin Clark Development
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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 3:42 PM.