Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell has called on fans and teammates to be patient as Caitlin Clark recovers from a left quadriceps strain, which is expected to keep her sidelined for at least two weeks. Mitchell supports the cautious approach to Clark’s rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of full recovery before returning to play.
Team Rallying Around Clark During Her Recovery
Mitchell highlighted that Clark feels the strong backing of her teammates throughout the healing process. She reassured that Clark is aware of the support available within the locker room and beyond.
“Caitlin knows that she has the ears and the eyes in the locker room and the support that she has behind (her), whether is us or anybody else,”
Mitchell said.
I would like to think she knows that it’s there.
Clark’s Injury Marks Early Career Setback
Caitlin Clark, the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, sustained this injury during a recent game against the New York Liberty. This incident represents her first major injury in both her professional and collegiate career. The Fever are implementing a long-term strategy for Clark’s recovery to prevent any lasting complications.
Coach White Stresses Long-Term Care Over Quick Return
Fever head coach Stephanie White underlined the need to avoid rushing Clark back onto the court, citing the importance of addressing the injury thoroughly to ensure it does not hinder her for the rest of the season.
“Obviously, she’s a competitor and wants to play. Obviously, everyone wants to watch her play. But for me, it’s maintaining perspective,”
White explained.
“It’s making sure that we address this in a way that doesn’t affect long term, that we take care of it, don’t over-push, don’t overexert, making sure that we take the long-game approach to this so that we’re not having lingering issues throughout the course of the season. Sometimes great players don’t tell you when they’re hurting. I’m glad that she did, because we need to nip this in the bud.”
Implications for Fever’s Season and Clark’s Role
Clark will miss at least four games as she continues her recovery, during which the Fever plan to prioritize her health without compromising her future performance. Mitchell’s and White’s statements reflect the team’s intention to safeguard Clark’s long-term impact amid high expectations for the star rookie’s career.