The WNBA’s biggest star, Caitlin Clark, has been the center of national conversation since entering the league — and now, all eyes are on her health ahead of the Indiana Fever’s upcoming clash with the New York Liberty. After taking a hard foul in a recent game and being seen limping post-match, fans and analysts alike have been anxiously awaiting an update on her injury status.

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Meanwhile, early ratings data shows a massive 55% drop in WNBA viewership for nationally televised games that did not feature Clark — signaling her enormous impact on the league’s visibility.

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Injury Update: Will Caitlin Clark Play Against the Liberty?

According to team officials, Caitlin Clark is not expected to miss time despite some soreness following the Fever’s last outing. Sources say she underwent evaluation and treatment for a minor leg contusion but is listed as “probable” for the high-profile game against the Liberty.

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“She’s tough,” said Fever coach Christie Sides. “Caitlin is going through what all rookies do — physical play, hard fouls — but she’s learning, adapting, and still competing at the highest level.”

Clark has yet to miss a game this season despite facing intense defensive pressure and several hard hits.

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Ratings Drop Sparks Concern for WNBA

While Clark’s status may be improving, the league itself has felt her absence in a different way. Nielsen data shows that national WNBA broadcasts not featuring the Indiana Fever or Caitlin Clark have experienced an average ratings drop of over 50% — with some matchups drawing fewer than 200,000 viewers.

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This decline has reignited the debate around the WNBA’s long-standing struggle for mainstream attention, and whether the league has become too dependent on one player to carry its commercial appeal.

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“The WNBA needed a superstar. They got one. But now they have to figure out how to build sustainable interest beyond just Caitlin Clark,” said one league analyst.

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Clark vs Liberty: Must-See Matchup

Assuming Clark suits up, the Fever vs Liberty game will be one of the biggest draws of the week. The Liberty, led by Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, represent one of the WNBA’s top superteams — and a formidable challenge for Clark and the struggling Fever.

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In their last meeting, New York dominated Indiana, exposing the team’s defensive flaws and forcing Clark into early foul trouble. Fans will be watching closely to see how she adjusts, especially if she’s not fully at 100%.

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What’s Next for the League?

Clark’s presence has undeniably boosted the WNBA’s viewership, attendance, and media coverage. But the sharp contrast in ratings when she’s not on the court may push the league to rethink its marketing strategy — and prioritize broader investment in storytelling, rivalries, and team branding.

As for Caitlin Clark, her resilience, court vision, and star power continue to shine — even in the face of injuries and criticism.

TL;DR: Caitlin Clark is likely to play in the Fever’s next game against the Liberty despite a recent minor injury. Meanwhile, WNBA ratings have plunged by over 50% for games not involving her — a wake-up call for the league as it navigates its future.