Clark Out, Jones Returns for Fever-Liberty Showdown

In a significant matchup on Tuesday, the Indiana Fever will face the New York Liberty without star player Caitlin Clark, who has been ruled out due to a right groin injury. This marks Clark’s absence for the 11th regular season game and the 12th overall, including the Commissioner’s Cup final. Her injury is particularly notable as she previously did not miss any games during her collegiate career or her rookie WNBA season.

Clark’s current season statistics highlight her impact on the court, with averages of 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds. Throughout the season, she has faced multiple injury hurdles, sidelined earlier this summer due to left quad and left groin injuries.

Jonquel Jones Set to Make Comeback

On the other side, the Liberty will welcome back Jonquel Jones, the 2024 Finals MVP, who has been cleared to play following a right ankle injury. Jones has been absent since June 19 and will be making her return for the first time in nearly two months. Her presence is expected to bolster the Liberty’s performance, especially given their struggles in her absence; the team has only managed a record of 7-5 without her, a stark contrast to their initial 9-0 start to the season.

This season, Jones has appeared in just nine games, averaging 12.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, while shooting an impressive 43.8% from beyond the arc. Her return is anticipated to provide a significant lift as the Liberty look to regain their momentum.

The Fever and Liberty will tip off at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, marking their second meeting within a week. In their previous encounter last Wednesday in Brooklyn, the Liberty emerged victorious with a score of 98-77, a result that both teams will aim to build upon or rectify come Tuesday.

As the Fever aim to overcome Clark’s absence, the spotlight will be on Jones as she seeks to reassert her influence on the game and help the Liberty regain their footing in the league standings.