On May 24, during a tightly contested game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse against the New York Liberty, Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark experienced a left quadriceps strain that will sideline her for several weeks. This injury disrupts the promising trajectory of Clark’s 2025 WNBA season and poses challenges for both her individual progress and the Fever’s aspirations.

Two days following the game, Indiana Fever confirmed that Clark sustained the left quadriceps strain, requiring at least a two-week recovery period. The injury threatens to alter the course of the season for the team’s star rookie as she begins rehabilitation.

Understanding the Nature of a Left Quadriceps Strain

The quadriceps femoris is a group of four muscles at the front of the thigh—including the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius—that play vital roles in knee extension and powerful athletic movements like jumping and sprinting. A strain in this muscle group results from overstretching or tearing muscle fibers.

Such strains are categorized into three grades, each with distinct severity levels and recovery timelines. Grade 1 involves minor fiber tears with mild discomfort and typically heals in one to two weeks. Grade 2 reflects partial tearing, accompanied by more intense pain and some loss of strength, often requiring four to six weeks to recover. Grade 3 is a complete rupture, causing significant swelling and functional impairment, often necessitating surgery and an extended rehabilitation period.

While Clark’s team has not publicly disclosed whether her injury is a Grade 1 or Grade 2 strain, her minimum expected absence is around two weeks. She had initially exhibited signs of discomfort in her left leg during Indiana’s first preseason game on May 3 but was able to play against Brazil the following day. The recent injury occurred independently of that preseason incident.

Details on Caitlin Clark’s Injury Timeline and Treatment Strategy

Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White has emphasized a cautious approach to Clark’s rehabilitation, prioritizing a full recovery rather than rushing her return to the court. Following the May 24 game against the Liberty, Clark reported left quadriceps pain, which prompted an MRI and diagnosis of a quad strain unrelated to her preseason bruise.

I don’t know when it happened. But um… I know we had a message that she had something going on with her leg, and they are getting an MRI,

—Stephanie White, Indiana Fever Head Coach

Clark is scheduled for a re-evaluation in early June, with medical staff hopeful for her resumption of play between June 8 and June 10, depending on her response to therapy and healing progress.

Her recovery will likely follow standard protocols for Grade 1–2 strains, progressing through stages including early mobilization, strengthening exercises, plyometric training, and sport-specific drills, culminating in return-to-play testing. This evidence-based regimen aims to reduce the risk of reinjury and ensure Clark regains full operational strength before rejoining the Fever lineup.

Caitlin Clark’s 2025 Season Performance Before Injury

Prior to the setback, Clark demonstrated an exceptional start to her sophomore season in the WNBA. On May 17, she recorded her third career triple-double with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a decisive 93–58 triumph over the Chicago Sky. This milestone solidified her status as a leading star in the league.

In a narrow loss to the Atlanta Dream on May 20, Clark delivered 27 points and 11 assists, showcasing her scoring and playmaking talents despite the team’s 90–91 defeat. Two days later, she helped secure an 81–76 victory against the Dream with 11 points and six assists, maintaining strong individual contributions.

Against the New York Liberty on May 24, Clark registered 18 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in the Fever’s close 88–90 loss, highlighting her all-around impact even in defeat.

Implications of Clark’s Absence on Indiana Fever’s Campaign

With Clark sidelined, Indiana Fever will rely more heavily on players like Lexie Hull, Kelsey Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston to fill the void on both ends of the court. These role players face the challenge of elevating their performance to sustain the team’s momentum during Clark’s absence.

The Fever’s hopes hinge on Clark’s recovery and timely return, as her dynamic playmaking and scoring ability are central to Indiana’s championship ambitions. If she recovers as planned, early to mid-June will see her reintegrated into the lineup, potentially reigniting the team’s pursuit of a playoff run and deeper postseason success.