The New York Liberty will welcome back Jonquel Jones on Tuesday for their home game against the Indiana Fever, who will once again be without star guard Caitlin Clark due to injury. This update on Caitlin Clark’s injury situation comes as Jones is cleared to play after missing multiple games with an ankle issue.
Jones’ Recovery and Impact Since Injury
Jonquel Jones, the reigning WNBA Finals MVP and a former league MVP, had been sidelined for nine games following a right ankle injury sustained early in a June 19 matchup against the Phoenix Mercury. Despite the setback, Jones is no longer listed on the Liberty’s injury report ahead of the upcoming game. Before her injury, the Liberty held a 10-1 record but struggled to maintain that dominance during her absence, going 5-5 before winning their last three games. Jones, 31, has averaged 12.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in nine appearances this season and remains a critical presence for New York’s lineup as a five-time All-Star.
Caitlin Clark’s Continuing Absence and Team Response
Caitlin Clark, the Fever’s 23-year-old guard and the current WNBA Rookie of the Year, has missed Indiana’s most recent game along with the recent All-Star Game due to a right groin injury. This absence marks her 12th missed game this season, including time lost earlier with left quadriceps and groin issues. Clark’s absence has had a notable effect on the Fever, who lack their young star’s playmaking abilities in recent contests. Indiana coach Stephanie White addressed Clark’s condition on Monday, emphasizing cautious progress and ongoing evaluations:
“I think that we’re continuing to address everything that needs to be addressed. … We’re just going to continue to take it one day at a time and let her get her evaluations early this week, and then once we’ve done that hopefully we’ll have more of a clear (view) of what it looks like.”
—Stephanie White, Indiana Fever Head Coach
Clark has shown strong performance in her second All-Star season, recording averages of 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists across 13 games. Her health status remains closely monitored as Indiana navigates this challenging stretch.
Recent Matchups and Player Performances
Prior to the All-Star break, the Liberty defeated the Fever 98-77 in a home game, with Breanna Stewart leading New York’s charge by posting 24 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. For Indiana, Kelsey Mitchell led scoring with 16 points, but the team struggled overall without Clark. This result reflects New York’s recent upswing while Indiana seeks to regain momentum amidst key injuries.
What Lies Ahead for Both Teams
With Jonquel Jones’ return, the Liberty aim to capitalize on their reinvigorated frontcourt as they continue their pursuit of playoff positioning. Meanwhile, the Fever face uncertainty around Caitlin Clark’s return timeline, which will influence their strategies moving forward. How quickly Clark recovers and reenters the lineup could significantly affect Indiana’s competitiveness as the season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark and Swift were both spotted in the same suite at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Texans on Saturday. This occasion marked their first appearance at a game together. Clark mentioned that Swift had invited her to attend earlier this season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift was spotted sitting next to WNBA star Caitlin Clark at the Chiefs’ home game against the Houston Texans. Clark’s presence in Swift’s suite happened shortly after the Indiana Fever player mentioned that Swift had invited her to the game.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift sent Caitlin Clark every T-shirt and sweatshirt from her Eras Tour collection. During the 2024 Eras Tour concert in Indianapolis, Clark received four bags of Swift-themed merchandise.
Q. Is Caitlin Clark hanging out with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark mentioned that she and Swift “had a great time” at the playoff game in Kansas City. She described it as the “ideal game” to attend with Swift. “It’s adorable to see how thrilled she is for the Chiefs,” Clark added, expressing, “Sharing that moment with her made me think, ‘Wow, I love this!'”