Caitlin Clark ruled out vs. Fire due to a back injury

Indiana Fever star guard Caitlin Clark was ruled out of Wednesday's May 20, 2026 game against the Portland Fire due to a back injury, though beat reporter Scott Agness described it as a planned absence part of a 'strategic management plan for the season.' The game marked Indiana's fourth in eight days, and Clark is expected to return for the team's next game on Friday against the Golden State Valkyries. Clark has faced significant injury concerns in recent seasons, having played only 13 games in 2025 due to a groin injury after appearing in 40 during her rookie year.