3x WNBA champion makes strong statement on Caitlin Clark's decision to sit out the rest of the Fever's season

If there’s one highlight for the Indiana Fever this WNBA season, it’s their remarkable playoff berth — achieved despite being without Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham due to significant injuries. Resilience has been a defining trait for Stephanie White’s squad, who now set their sights on making a deep postseason run.

Candace Parker — a three-time WNBA champion and two-time league MVP — is no stranger to the challenges of injuries throughout her career. However, unlike Clark, she chose a different path in facing those setbacks.

“I have been a player that has had a number of injuries, and I think later in my career, especially some of those injuries would have been less or preventable had I listened to my body earlier and taken the time,” the former Aces standout said on Post Moves.

Physical setbacks, if not properly addressed, can often lead to long-term consequences for athletes. That’s why Parker supports the Fever star’s decision to prioritize her health — applauding Clark for taking the time she needs and choosing to return only when she’s truly ready.

Former Chicago Sky player Candace Parker speaks to the crowd.

“I know it’s difficult to look at the big picture, especially if you’re living with tunnel vision and you’ve worked so hard to get to where you’re at. But it’s the smart thing. And I’m proud of this generation for taking the time they need to look at the bigger picture, and making sure that they get healthy.“

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Fever make last pending call on veteran contract with Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham out for playoffs

Playoffs on their mind

For the Indiana Fever, this playoff series against the Atlanta Dream is about more than just a first-round matchup—it’s a chance to prove they’re a legitimate contender.

Despite losing superstar guard Caitlin Clark to a season-ending injury, the Fever have shown remarkable resilience, relying on the strong play of All-Stars Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston to set a franchise record for regular-season wins.

They’ll need that collective effort and mental toughness to overcome a formidable Dream squad that split the season series with them. With the franchise making its first back-to-back playoff appearances since 2016, all eyes are on this young, scrappy team to see if they can finally break through and make a deep postseason run.

Matchups vs the Dream

• @ Gateway Center Arena, September 14
• Gainbridge Fieldhouse, September 16
• @ Gateway Center Arena, September 18