Context:

Caitlin Clark, a guard for the Indiana Fever, has withdrawn from All-Star weekend due to a right groin injury sustained in the final minute of a game against the Connecticut Sun. Despite being unable to participate in the 3-Point Contest or the All-Star Game, where she was a captain and leading vote-getter, Clark will still attend the events to support her team. Her absence is notable as she has been a significant factor in the league's recent increase in attendance and ratings. This injury marks the fourth muscle-related issue she has faced this year, following previous injuries that caused her to miss several games. Clark's resilience has been tested, having never missed a game in college or her first WNBA season, but the current season has been challenging with multiple injuries.

Dive Deeper:

• Caitlin Clark sustained a right groin injury during the Indiana Fever's victory over the Connecticut Sun, leading to her withdrawal from All-Star weekend events, including the 3-Point Contest and All-Star Game.

• Despite being sidelined, Clark intends to attend the All-Star weekend at Gainbridge Fieldhouse to support her team and coach alongside Liberty coach Sandy Brondello.

• Clark has been a pivotal figure in boosting the WNBA's attendance and viewership, being the leading vote-getter for the All-Star event and serving as captain of one of the teams.

• The injury occurred in the closing moments of the game, with Clark visibly distressed, leading to her absence in the subsequent game against New York, which the Fever lost 98-77.

• This groin injury is Clark's fourth muscle-related issue this year, having previously missed games due to a quad strain and other injuries, a stark contrast to her previous durability throughout college and her initial WNBA season.

• Clark's previous injuries this season include missing the preseason opener due to quad tightness, a quad strain against New York that caused a five-game absence, and a left groin injury that sidelined her for four games and the Commissioner’s Cup final.

• The Fever's coach, Stephanie White, noted that imaging of Clark's recent injury was conducted, with the team's training staff deeming the findings as good news, though specific details were not disclosed.