Caitlin Clark, a star player for the Indiana Fever, will not participate in Thursday’s matchup against the Las Vegas Aces. This will be her fourth consecutive absence as she recovers from a left groin injury. The Fever are coming off a surprising victory in the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup, defeating the Minnesota Lynx on Tuesday night.

Recently, Clark managed to partake partially in practice sessions. Fever coach Stephanie White stated, “My goal has always been the same: I don’t want this to be something that lingers, that we come back too soon. We want to ensure she is 100% ready to go and prioritize her long-term health and wellness.”

Clark expressed, “Doing everything I can to put myself in a position to play the next game every time. That’s my aim, and I’m working closely with the medical staff to get my body ready for that. I feel good and am taking it day-by-day.”

She hasn’t played since June 24, when she scored just six points in a victorious game against the Seattle Storm. In a twist of fate, she had an awkward fall near the game’s conclusion, subsequently leading to her missing games against Los Angeles Sparks and the Dallas Wings last Friday.

Clark’s Previous Injury Concerns

This season marks the second injury for Clark, following a left quad strain that sidelined her for three weeks earlier. Overall, she has missed seven of the Fever’s 16 games thus far. Without her, the Fever’s record is 3-4, while it is 5-4 with her on the court.

Prior to this season, Clark had a remarkable streak, not missing a game since her high school days, totaling 185 consecutive games dating back to her freshman year at Iowa. Although the Fever hoped for her participation in the Commissioner’s Cup, ensuring her full recovery is paramount as they approach the mid-point of the season.

Currently, the Fever’s placement in the standings is precarious at 8-8, sitting in eighth place. They will need Clark at full strength to make a significant push in the standings.