Los Angeles: Caitlin Clark targets return versus Sparks
PUBLISHED Jul 8, 2026, 8:39 AM ET
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INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Fever guard and WNBA All-Star Caitlin Clark said on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, that she is hopeful of playing in Wednesday night’s road game against the Los Angeles Sparks, as she nears a return from a back injury that has kept her out for two weeks. Speaking to reporters before the Fever’s practice, Clark said she feels encouraged by her progress and is aiming to be available for the July 8 matchup in Los Angeles, though she acknowledged that any return would come with limitations. She noted that if she is cleared to play, she will likely be on a minutes restriction while she adjusts to game speed after her layoff. LOS ANGELES — Clark has been sidelined since suffering the back injury on June 24, 2026, in a game against the Phoenix Mercury, when she took a hit to the throat from forward Alyssa Thomas during a physical play. Clark was seen grimacing in pain following the contact, which prompted an immediate review by WNBA officials; the league later suspended Thomas for one game, ruling that she had recklessly made contact with her fist. The incident fueled a broader debate around the WNBA about the level of physical play and how best to protect star players, with some voices defending the contact as part of the sport and others urging stricter officiating to reduce injury risk.
By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Jun 24, 2026 Clark injured versus Mercury
- Late June 2026 Clark begins back rehabilitation
- Late June 2026 WNBA reviews Thomas incident
- Late June 2026 League issues Thomas one-game suspension
- Early July 2026 Clark remains sidelined despite break
- Sunday Jul 5, 2026 Clark misses game versus Aces
- Tuesday Jul 7, 2026 Clark expresses optimism about return
- Wednesday Jul 8, 2026 Fever scheduled to face Sparks
News Intelligence
- Clark's potential return could boost the Fever's game, making for more exciting WNBA action. The incident also highlights the ongoing debate about player safety in the league. If you're a fan, you might want to weigh in on this conversation.
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