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ESPN Predicts Indiana Fever to Lose in Caitlin Clark's Return

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 8:15 PM ET

After missing the Indiana Fever's last five games due to a quad injury, star guard Caitlin Clark is now set to return when the team faces the New York Liberty on Friday.

Through the four games she has played so far, Clark has averaged 19.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 9.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. She has also shot 40.3% from the field and 31.4% from deep.

Naturally, her absence was a big blow to the Fever, who went 2-3 without her. In their most recent game against the Atlanta Dream, Indiana was blown out 77-58 — marking the team's lowest scoring output since 2017.

Sure enough, with Clark back, hopes are high that they will be able to return to the win column swiftly.

Unfortunately for the Fever, though, they are facing an undefeated Liberty team in Clark's first game back. That said, even ESPN isn't giving them much chance to win.

According to ESPN's Matchup Predictor, the Fever have only a 35.4% chance to emerge victorious. The Liberty, meanwhile, hold a 64.6% chance.

For what it's worth, the Fever played a tight game with the Liberty in their first meeting this season. New York won the game, albeit by just two points, 90-88.

In that contest, Clark had 18 points, five rebounds and 10 assists. Aliyah Boston led Indiana with 27 points and 13 boards.

Meanwhile, the Liberty were propelled by Jonquel Jones' 26 points and 12 rebounds. Sabrina Ionescu added 23 points, five boards and four dimes.

However, Jones' status for the upcoming Liberty-Fever game is uncertain. According to the latest WNBA update, she is in "danger of missing a second straight game" due to a right ankle injury.

Should Jones end up sitting out, it would certainly be a huge blow to the Liberty in their battle against one of the best defensive teams in the league.

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

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