Caitlin Clark’s Strong Response on Fever Return Before Liberty Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 5:07 PM ET

It’s shaping up to be a huge weekend of basketball in Indianapolis. The Indiana Pacers are set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday. Then on Saturday, the Indiana Fever return to action against the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty.

The big news for Fever fans is the expected return of star guard Caitlin Clark, who has missed the past five games with a quad injury.

Following practice on Friday, Clark spoke with the media about her return and the process of getting back on the court.

"Yeah, I am really excited. It’s definitely been a process," Clark said. "The hardest part is some days you feel really good, and it’s just about working your way back into playing again. Getting up and down the court, being out there with my teammates — that part’s tough when they’re prepping for a game and I know I’m not available.

Caitlin Clark on what she’s learned being out for three weeks and “shaking off some rust” in her return: pic.twitter.com/2Gf8wFqyP6
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) June 13, 2025

"But the medical staff did a great job, and I’ve just tried to stay focused and learn while I’ve been out.”

Clark also shared what she learned while sidelined: "It can teach you a lot. It’s definitely been a learning opportunity, and I think it’s going to benefit me in the long run. But I’m super excited and honestly a little antsy to get back out there.”

Indiana has started the 2025 season with a 4-5 record. Clark was averaging 19 points in 35 minutes per game before her injury.

The Fever have also been without veteran guard Sophie Cunningham since May 30 due to an ankle injury. In her absence, Indiana brought in Aari McDonald via an emergency hardship exemption. McDonald has made the most of her opportunity, averaging 11 points per game across three appearances.

With Cunningham expected to return Saturday, McDonald’s short stint with the team may come to an end, as the hardship exemption will likely be lifted.

As Clark re-enters the lineup and Cunningham nears a return, the Fever look to regain momentum heading into a tough matchup against New York. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on Saturday on ABC.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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