Will Caitlin Clark Be Able to Participate in WNBA All-Star Weekend?

As the WNBA All-Star Weekend approaches, all eyes are on Caitlin Clark — not only because she’s one of the brightest new stars in women’s basketball, but because she may not be able to participate at all. The Indiana Fever guard, known for her fiery play and historic performances, is now facing uncertainty after a groin injury forced her to limp off the court during a recent matchup against the Connecticut Sun.

The Rivalry, the Pressure, the Injury

The game between the Indiana Fever and Connecticut Sun wasn’t just another stop in the regular season. It was a high-stakes rematch with a lot of history — a rivalry dating back to their heated June matchup, which featured flagrant fouls, technicals, and ejections. This time, the rematch took place in the iconic TD Garden, only the second WNBA game ever hosted at the historic venue.

Clark came into the game with mounting pressure. She had missed 33 three-pointers on the road to start the season — a WNBA record for most road misses to start a season. While she did manage to land a few shots and dish out solid assists, trouble came late in the game. As she attempted a play, Clark pulled up limping, visibly in pain, and immediately exited with discomfort in her groin — the same type of injury that had already sidelined her during the Commissioner’s Cup Final just weeks before.

Head coach Stephanie White addressed the press post-game, stating, “No update. Just felt a little something in her groin. We’ll get it evaluated and see what happens from there.”

What’s at Stake This Weekend?

Clark is more than just a participant in All-Star Weekend — she’s one of its main attractions. The weekend is set to take place in Indianapolis, her home city, and she’s not only a team captain for the All-Star Game on Saturday but is also scheduled to compete in the three-point contest on Friday.

For Clark, the moment is deeply personal. She previously expressed that she would wait to join the three-point contest until it was held in Indianapolis — making this weekend something of a career milestone. Now, with the injury clouding her status, fans are left anxiously wondering whether she’ll suit up at all.

MRI, Travel, and the Latest Update

After the game in Boston, Clark traveled with the team to New York to prepare for a back-to-back game against the Liberty. However, according to ESPN’s Alexa Philippou, Clark underwent an MRI the next morning and is officially listed as “questionable” on the Indiana Fever’s injury report. Philippou added, “I’d be pretty surprised if we see her tonight against the Liberty… given this appears to be a different side of her groin from the last injury, the team may err on the side of caution.”

This cautious approach makes sense, especially with her long-term health and the rest of the season in mind. If Clark is unable to play in the All-Star Game, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will name a replacement, as has already been done in other recent injury situations — like Kayla McBride replacing Rhyne Howard.

What Happens Next?

Clark’s status remains day-to-day. The Fever and the league are expected to wait until the last possible moment before making a final decision. It’s a difficult position for everyone — the fans, the WNBA, and especially Caitlin herself. Her emotional reaction on the bench after the injury showed just how much the moment means to her.

At this point, all of Indianapolis — and the WNBA — is holding its breath. Clark has helped generate unprecedented attention and excitement for the league this year. Her participation would elevate the All-Star Weekend into a can’t-miss cultural event. Without her, there’s no question the energy will take a hit.

Still, player safety comes first. With a long career ahead and a crucial second half of the season waiting, the priority must be her recovery — no matter how much it stings for her and the fans.