Caitlin Clark Returns to Indiana Fever Court After Nine-Month Absence

Caitlin Clark made her long-awaited return to the Indiana Fever lineup on Saturday, April 25, 2026, playing in her first WNBA game in nine months during the team’s preseason opener against the Fresh York Liberty. The Fever secured a 109-91 victory in Brooklyn, marking Clark’s first appearance since injuries limited her to just 13 games during her second WNBA season.

Clark entered the game to a warm ovation from the crowd when introduced in the starting lineup. She wasted no time making an impact, scoring the first basket of the game and later hitting her signature step-back 3-pointer from deep. After making her first two shots, Clark missed her final eight attempts but still contributed seven points, four assists, and three rebounds in just under 17 minutes of play.

Clark Expresses Optimism About Return

Despite the modest statistical output, Clark expressed satisfaction with her performance, particularly regarding her shot feel and mobility. Speaking with The Associated Press after the game, she said, “Honestly, my shot felt really good and I was missing long, which is what you seek to see. But it felt good. I felt fast, so that was definitely a positive. I think I struggled in that area last year, but my body felt great. I felt like I was moving well. So overall really happy.”

Clark acknowledged feeling some nerves before tip-off but noted they did not affect her early performance. Her return comes after a lengthy rehabilitation process following injuries that derailed much of her second professional season.

Fever Dominate Preseason Opener

Although Clark’s individual stats were modest, the Indiana Fever as a team delivered a strong performance in their preseason debut. Kelsey Mitchell and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough each led the team with 18 points, while Sophie Cunningham added 13 points on efficient 3-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc.

The Fever’s bench also contributed significantly, with rookie Raven Johnson recording six points, eight assists, three rebounds, and two blocks. Jessica Timmons and Justine Pissott combined for 18 points off the bench. New York was led by Han Xu’s 20 points and Breanna Stewart’s 16 points with five rebounds.

Both teams cleared their benches extensively, with starters sitting out by the middle of the third quarter as coaches evaluated roster depth. The Fever will continue their preseason schedule with a home game against the Dallas Wings on Thursday, April 30, at 7 p.m. ET.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 WNBA Season

Clark’s successful return to game action, even in a preseason setting, represents a significant milestone for both the player and the Indiana Fever organization. After missing the majority of the 2025 season due to injury, her availability and improved physical condition bode well for Indiana’s prospects in the upcoming regular season.

The Fever will aim to build on this positive preseason start as they prepare for the 2026 WNBA campaign, with Clark’s health and performance expected to be central to their success.