Caitlin Clark still sidelined: Coach Stephanie White reveals what’s really delaying her return

White opens up about Clark’s mindset, rehab, and why the Fever aren’t rushing things

The Indiana Fever will take the court Saturday night without Caitlin Clark once again, marking her fifth straight missed game due to a groin injury that just won’t go away.

And while the WNBA’s newest All-Star captain has been making strides in practice, head coach Stephanie White says the team isn’t rushing her back – and for good reason.

After Friday’s practice, White offered some honest insight into the situation. Clark has been doing light 3-on-3 work and semi-live shooting drills, but she hasn’t gone full speed or participated in live defensive sets. That means she’s close – but not close enough.

Clark’s Not Looking for “Just a Few Minutes” – She Wants to Be All In

According to White, the real holdup may not just be the injury itself, but Clark’s approach to returning. “She’s not a fan of minutes restrictions,”White said, via Fever beat writer Tony East. “If that’s the case, we might hold her out another game.”

In other words, Clark wants to be fully ready – not just cleared for 10-12 minutes of cautious play. That mindset, while admirable, means Indiana will likely keep her on the sidelines until she’s 100 percent.

White made it clear the focus is on long-term health, not short-term wins. “It’s about what’s best for her and what’s best for us later in the season,” she said.

In the meantime, the Fever have been holding their own. Indiana is currently riding a three-game winning streak, including a gritty Commissioner’s Cup title win over Minnesota. The team has leaned on veterans like Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston to keep the offense rolling.

The Fever’s next matchup is Wednesday against the Golden State Valkyries, but Clark’s status for that game is still up in the air. White’s final word? “She’s just not there yet. And that’s okay.”