Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will miss Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Sparks because of low back pain.

Clark exited Wednesday's loss to the Phoenix Mercury in the third quarter after aggravating a season-long back issue that previously caused her to miss a game on May 20 and has frequently left her listed as probable on the injury report.

Fever head coach Stephanie White said there is "no indication" yet on how long Clark could be sidelined but noted that Indiana's upcoming week off should provide valuable time for treatment and recovery.

Key Facts

  • Injury: Low back pain

  • Status: Out for Saturday's game vs. Los Angeles Sparks

  • Previous Absence: Missed one game on May 20 because of the same issue

  • Return Timeline: Undetermined

Clark's back issues resurfaced after she went down while driving to the basket during the second quarter of Wednesday's game. While Clark was on the floor, Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas appeared to press her fist into Clark's throat before stepping over her. Thomas was not called for a foul during the game but was later suspended by the WNBA for one game.

Outlook

At this point, there is no indication that Clark is facing a long-term absence, and the Fever appear hopeful that the upcoming break in the schedule will allow her to recover.

Back injuries can be difficult to manage because symptoms often fluctuate depending on treatment, activity levels, and inflammation. Indiana will likely take a cautious approach with its franchise player given her importance to the team and the fact that she was limited to just 13 games last season because of injuries.

Clark has been one of the WNBA's top players this season, averaging a career-high 21.2 points, 8.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 17 games.