Indiana Fever All-Star Caitlin Clark is optimistic about returning to play Wednesday night against the Los Angeles Sparks following a back injury that sidelined her for several weeks. Clark has been rehabbing since sustaining the injury during a June 24 game against the Phoenix Mercury, which forced her out of action. If she does suit up, Clark indicated she would likely be limited in minutes and does not expect to participate in a highly anticipated rematch against the Sparks on Thursday in Phoenix.

Clark’s injury occurred amid heightened tension during the June 24 game, when she appeared to be hurt after contact involving Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas. Thomas was subsequently suspended for one game by league officials for “recklessly making contact with her fist,” a decision that sparked debate about player safety and the physicality of the league. Despite an eight-day break before Indiana’s game in Las Vegas on Sunday, Clark was not yet ready to return. However, an additional two days of rest may provide the opportunity for her to rejoin the lineup.

“Very hopeful for tomorrow and, obviously, it’ll be difficult for me to play both — this one on Wednesday and then the one on Thursday — but we’ll see,” Clark said as Indiana’s practice commenced Tuesday. “From a health standpoint, just getting back into it, I would assume I’d be on a minutes restriction. Still hopeful of a little more than 20 if I’m able to go. Hopefully, I feel good after the game versus Los Angeles and then will be available in Vegas on Sunday.”

Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White expressed caution regarding Clark’s status, noting the team is awaiting medical clearance before making a final determination. “I do what I’m told, I stay in my lane, so whatever medical says we need to do to make sure she’s ready and whatever she needs to feel comfortable and confident is what we’ll do,” White said.

Clark has missed three games out of Indiana's first 20 this season, following a limited 13-game presence last year due to injuries. Meanwhile, the Sparks’ roster features two All-Stars, Nneka Ogwumike and Kelsey Plum. Ogwumike, an 11-time All-Star, recently tied Diana Taurasi for second-most All-Star appearances, trailing only Sue Bird’s record of 13.