Despite what everyone (including us) has been saying, Caitlin Clark might just return to the court this season after all. There's been no official word from the Fever, but IndyStar reporter Chloe Peterson shared video of Clark running down the court in 5-on-0 practice with the team out in Phoenix Tuesday morning — and it looks like Clark even hit a shot while doing so.
Anticipation for Clark's return to the court has been, to put it mildly, high. But in recent weeks that anticipation has also been tempered with caution, especially as more and more people (including retired WNBA superstar Lisa Leslie) voiced their concern about the Fever bringing back Clark too soon.
Caitlin Clark is running with the Fever backups in their full-court 5-on-0 this morning: pic.twitter.com/2Wfk4WZSDV
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) September 2, 2025
That concern is absolutely justified. Clark has battled one injury or another since the preseason, when she missed a game against the Mystics due to tightness in her left leg. Weeks later, Clark missed several games due to a left quadricips injury; she missed more still due to a left groin injury that was followed by a right groin injury.
This practice footage is also not any firm indication that Clark will be back on the floor for the Fever tonight, as the team prepares to face the Mercury at home in Phoenix. And while it would be incredible for the Fever if she did play — assuming she is completely healed and ready to go — the last outcome anyone wants is for Clark to come back too soon and end up hurt again.
Clark's impact on the Fever and the team's impact cannot be overstated, and this is an absolutely crucial part of the season for the team. The Fever is currently ranked No. 7 overall in the league standings, which means they'll likely have a spot in the playoffs — but a potential return for Clark could push the team up a little higher in seeding, which could net out a few advantages for Indiana in the long run.
No matter what happens this season, seeing Clark back on the floor with her teammates is definitely a good thing for everyone involved. There's no doubt the team, who has also lost Aari McDonald, Sydney Colson, and Sophie Cunningham to season-ending injuries this year, is energized by her presence — and vice-versa.
What remains to be seen is whether or not Clark has hit Stephanie White's list of requirements for her return — and only time will tell.