Indiana Fever warned by WNBA after late injury report on star guard Caitlin Clark

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark was ruled out of the May 20 game against the Portland Fire because of a back injury. The team failed to list her on the official injury report the day before, instead announcing her status less than two hours before tip‑off. This timing violates the WNBA rule that requires teams to designate participation status and identify injuries by 5 p.m. local time the day before a game.

The league subsequently issued a formal warning to the Fever, indicating the possibility of a future fine if the violation is repeated. Coach Stephanie White gave inconsistent statements, at one point saying “She’s healthy” while also noting Clark “woke up with some stiffness and some soreness.” Fans and commentators criticized the lack of transparency, sparking conspiracy theories and calls for accountability.

Clark, a two‑time All‑Star, had averaged 24.3 points, nine assists and five rebounds in the Fever’s first four games and was listed as probable for the following matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. The incident highlights the league’s enforcement of injury‑reporting policies and the scrutiny placed on its marquee players.