Caitlin Clark, a guard for the Indiana Fever, left Wednesday’s game against the Phoenix Mercury before the fourth quarter due to a back issue. The Fever announced Clark’s exit, and it remains unclear when she started experiencing back discomfort. She seemed to aggravate her back after a foul in the second quarter. Clark departed the court with a little over five minutes left in the third quarter and did not return, according to the Indianapolis Star.

Even with Clark sidelined, the Phoenix Mercury managed to overcome the Fever with a narrow 111-109 victory. Clark’s absence provided an opportunity for the Mercury to rally, marking their sixth win of the season. Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 30 points, but Kahleah Copper’s 28 points contributed significantly to the Mercury’s success.

The physical play faced by Clark has been under discussion since her WNBA debut in 2024. This topic resurfaced in the second quarter when she was fouled while driving to the basket and lost ball control. Replay footage showed Phoenix player Alyssa Thomas making contact with Clark during the play. First, with a knee near Clark’s groin, followed by what appeared to be Thomas’ fist near Clark’s throat. No foul was called.

Clark’s back issue has been documented before on Indiana’s injury reports throughout the season. The Fever continue their home games on Saturday against the Los Angeles Sparks.