Clark returns from back injury, posts 22 points in Fever victory

Clark returns from back injury, posts 22 points in Fever victory

Caitlin Clark scored 22 points and added nine assists on May 22, 2026, as the Indiana Fever defeated the Golden State Valkyries 90-82 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis – Clark’s first appearance after being ruled out of the team’s previous game with a back injury.

Clark had been scratched from Wednesday’s contest against the Portland Fire less than two hours before tipoff, with the Fever ruling her out due to the back problem. Indiana won that game 90-73 without her. She was not listed on the injury report the following day, and despite missing practice, she returned to the starting lineup two days after the late scratch. Center Aliyah Boston contributed 20 points and 16 rebounds for Indiana, recording a double-double in support of Clark’s effort.

Clark’s availability had been a recurring concern entering the 2026 season. A series of injuries limited her to 13 games in 2025, her second WNBA season, including a groin strain and an ankle bone bruise. The NCAA’s all-time leading scorer had been named the league’s Rookie of the Year following the 2024 season. Indiana also received a league warning during the current season over its handling of injury reporting related to Clark.

The Fever and Valkyries are scheduled to meet again on Thursday in San Francisco, with the two clubs switching venues for their next matchup.