Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s dynamic star guard, is expected to make her return to the lineup Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in their game against the Golden State Valkyries after missing the past five contests with a groin injury…

Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s dynamic star guard, is expected to make her return to the lineup Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in their game against the Golden State Valkyries after missing the past five contests with a groin injury

 

 

INDIANAPOLIS – July 9, 2025 — After a five-game absence due to a groin injury, Indiana Fever star guard Caitlin Clark is expected to return to action Wednesday night as the team takes on the Golden State Valkyries in a high-profile matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has quickly become the face of the franchise and one of the league’s most electrifying players. Her absence over the past two weeks has been deeply felt, as the Fever dropped three of five games without their dynamic floor general. Now, with Clark back in the mix, Indiana is hoping to regain its momentum as the second half of the WNBA season heats up.

“It’s been tough sitting out, especially when you want to be out there helping your team,” Clark said after Tuesday’s practice, where she participated fully for the first time since suffering the groin strain. “But I feel good now. The training staff did a great job, and I’m excited to be back on the floor.”

Clark was averaging 19.4 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game prior to the injury, ranking among the league leaders in both scoring and playmaking. Beyond her stats, her presence has brought a renewed energy to the Fever and has played a major role in boosting attendance and national interest in the team.

The timing of Clark’s return couldn’t be more critical. The Fever (10–12) are currently fighting for playoff position in a tightly packed Eastern Conference. The Golden State Valkyries, one of the league’s newest franchises, boast a strong backcourt of their own, including veteran All-Star Chelsea Gray and rising rookie guard Jada Williams. The game is expected to be one of the marquee matchups of the week, and Clark’s return only adds to the drama.

“She’s a competitor,” said Fever head coach Christie Sides. “We’ve missed her leadership and her ability to control the pace of the game. Her return lifts everybody on this team.”

Clark’s injury, which occurred late in a June 20th win over the Atlanta Dream, was initially feared to be more serious. However, MRI results confirmed a moderate groin strain, and the Fever medical staff adopted a cautious approach to avoid any long-term damage. Her return to practice on Monday was the final step in the clearance process, and all signs point to her suiting up on Wednesday.

Fans have eagerly awaited her return. Ticket sales for the Golden State matchup spiked earlier in the week amid rumors that Clark would be available, and local media reported a sellout crowd is expected.

The Fever and Valkyries are set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. ET. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN2.

As Clark returns to the court, all eyes will be on Indianapolis once again—eager to see what the former Iowa Hawkeye star will do next on her journey to WNBA stardom.