Barring any unexpected setbacks, Fever star Caitlin Clark is anticipated to return for Saturday – simply in time for the defending champion Liberty.
Clark missed the final 5 video games with a strained quad. The 2024 Rookie of the Yr has been progressively working her method again, and Fever coach Stephanie White believes Clark will probably be good to go for Saturday’s Fee Cup showdown in opposition to New York.
“I felt like today was better than yesterday in terms of movement and balance and feeling like she’s getting back into rhythm, timing, all of those things,” White advised reporters Friday after follow. “As long as we don’t have any regressions, she’s going to be ready to roll.”
Clark has led the Fever in scoring (19 factors per sport) and assists (9.3.) She’s additionally the very best rebounder amongst the crew’s guards, averaging six boards per sport.
The Fever are 4-5 this season after shedding three of the previous 5 video games with out Clark.
Clark’s return was not the one excellent news for the Fever on the damage entrance.
Guard Sophie Cunningham can also be anticipated to be again within the combine Saturday, in line with White.
Cunningham was sidelined the final three video games after aggravating an ankle damage that she first damage within the Fever’s preseason finale.
“Sophie looked really good,” White stated. “Her timing was good. Getting back into game rhythm and timing is the most important thing.”
Cunningham has averaged 6.5 factors and three.3 rebounds, whereas taking pictures 36.4% from deep in 4 video games.
With Clark and Cunningham again within the combine, the Fever are near being at full energy.
Indiana is planning to be with out DeWanna Bonner, who stays away from the crew for an undisclosed private purpose.
Saturday would be the second assembly between the Fever and Liberty this season.
About two weeks in the past, the Liberty survived their closest encounter to a loss but at Indiana after they blew a double-digit lead within the second half and tailed by 12 within the fourth quarter.
Natasha Cloud made the game-sealing, controversy-stirring cease on Clark as time expired.
The Fever believed Cloud fouled Clark on the steal, whereas Cloud thought the officers made the appropriate name.
The Liberty are off to their finest begin in franchise historical past having gained 9 straight. They’re beating opponents by a median of 19 factors and have set a number of franchise and league information throughout their sizzling begin.
After the Lynx misplaced to the Storm earlier this week, New York is the one undefeated crew remaining.
However Clark & Co. will look to problem that Saturday.
