Caitlin Clark Withdraws from WNBA All-Star Events to Focus on Injury Recovery
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has officially withdrawn from both the WNBA All-Star Game and the accompanying 3-Point Contest, citing the need to focus on her ongoing injury recovery. The former Iowa Hawkeye announced her decision on Thursday, opting to prioritize her health over participating in the weekend’s festivities.Clark, a two-time WNBA All-Star, shared that she has been attempting to balance her treatment regimen with social engagements with fellow All-Stars during her extended break. “Yeah, I mean, certainly unfortunate and I feel like there’s been quite a few injuries over the course of the beginning of the season for quite a few people,” Clark stated. “So, a lot of people in the same boat as myself and even my (All-Star Game) team has dealt with some injuries tonight, so some people will be on just a couple minutes here and there and we’ll make do with what we have.”
She elaborated on her approach to recovery,noting,”I mean,I’m not going to say I’ve just been getting around-the-clock treatment.I’ve been still trying to enjoy this weekend, having a balance of that at the same time, and soaking all of this in. Once tomorrow comes around, we’ll wholly shift my focus to getting as healthy as possible. Just prioritizing that [recovery], but also having a good time has been important for myself too.”
The indiana Fever have managed to maintain some consistency, winning three of their last four games prior to the All-Star break.However, the team’s performance is substantially impacted by Clark’s absence, placing increased scoring pressure on teammates such as Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, and Natasha Howard.
While specific details regarding Clark’s groin injury have not been extensively disclosed, the Fever organization is hopeful that her participation in treatment over the weekend and into the following week will facilitate a swift return to the court.
entering the All-Star break, the Indiana Fever hold a 12-11 record, placing them third in the Eastern Conference standings. Their next scheduled game is Tuesday at 7 p.m. CT, where they will face the New York Liberty at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, with the game broadcast on ESPN.