Caitlin Clark Announces She Will Miss Fever’s Season Opener vs Chicago Sky: “I Will Not Be Attending or Participating”
Indianapolis, IN — May 11, 2025
By: Ava Chambers | WNBA Confidential
In a surprising turn of events just days before the Indiana Fever’s highly anticipated 2025 season opener, rookie sensation Caitlin Clark has announced she will not participate in the team’s Saturday matchup against the Chicago Sky at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
“I will not be attending or participating in the Chicago Sky vs Indiana Fever match coming on Saturday, May 17,” Clark wrote in a short but direct Instagram story post late Friday evening. “Thank you for understanding.”
The post, though brief, sent shockwaves through the WNBA community, prompting speculation about Clark’s status, health, and relationship with the team. Clark, known for her electrifying college career at Iowa and her top-pick selection in the 2024 WNBA Draft, was widely expected to be the face of the Fever’s new era.
Sources close to the team initially remained tight-lipped, but by Saturday morning, Fever head coach Stephanie White confirmed the news in a brief press conference.
“Yes, Caitlin will not be available for our opener,” White said. “We’re respecting her privacy and her reasons at this time. Our focus remains on preparing the rest of our team for what will still be a great game.”
While no official explanation has been provided, insider reports suggest the decision could be linked to personal matters unrelated to injury. Clark has not appeared in recent promotional materials or practices, though she was last seen in uniform during a closed-door scrimmage earlier in the week.
The absence of Clark from the game is a major blow to both the Fever and WNBA fans. The matchup against the Sky was one of the most anticipated games of opening weekend, expected to showcase the budding rivalry between Clark and Chicago’s standout guard Marina Mabrey.
Fans have expressed a mixture of disappointment and concern.
“She’s the reason we bought tickets. It’s heartbreaking,” said longtime Fever fan Angela Ramirez, who drove four hours to attend the opener. “But we just hope she’s okay.”
This sudden development comes amid whispers of tension within the Fever locker room, particularly between Clark and fellow young star Aliyah Boston. Though both players have denied rumors of a feud, the timing of Clark’s withdrawal has only fueled speculation.
For now, Clark’s statement stands as the only official word. The Fever organization is expected to release an update regarding her status next week.
Regardless of her absence, the Fever remain confident heading into Saturday’s matchup. “One player doesn’t make a team,” Coach White said. “This is a moment for others to step up.”
Fans, meanwhile, are left hoping this is only a temporary setback for one of the game’s most promising new stars.
