Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark wasn't able to finish Wednesday's game against the Phoenix Mercury due to a back injury.
Clark exited midway through the third quarter of the contest and headed to the locker room. Before the period ended, the team announced that she wouldn't be returning due to the injury.
"Injury Update: Caitlin Clark (back) will not return to tonight's game," the Fever posted on social media .
It's unknown what exactly happened to Clark. However, it should be noted that she has been dealing with a lingering back injury this 2026 season. In fact, she has been listed on the team's injury report for some time now due to the problem.
Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark reacts during a game.Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
The game against the Mercury was also highly physical. Earlier in the contest, Clark slipped and fell to the floor during a drive to the basket. While the Mercury were trying to get the ball as she lay on the floor, Phoenix star Alyssa Thomas was seen making contact with her throat.
Before Clark's exit, she had tallied 19 points, eight assists and one steal in 20 minutes of action.
It remains to be seen whether Clark's latest injury will affect her status moving forward. Considering how cautious the Fever have been regarding her injury, and given Clark's history with her back ailment, it wouldn't be surprising if Indiana opts to give her more time to recover.
The Fever will have a couple of days rest before playing again. They will face the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jun 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

