This has been the longest twenty day stretch in WNBA history, not to mention, it’s been hell for the Indiana Fever! Losing Sophie Cunningham to her ankle issues was bad enough, but Caitlin Clark’s quad strain? That was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Stephanie White’s team has been struggling, and even recorded a 19-point blowout loss against the Atlanta Dream recently. But that’s not the full impact that CC’s injuries have had, not even close.

Keeping the Fever aside for a second, the WNBA as a whole has taken a serious hit. Viewership numbers, ratings, ticket sales, merchandise, everything has stalled, and people are getting impatient waiting for their superstar’s return. Clark’s assessment on June 9th revealed that she was ready to ramp up basketball activities, but wasn’t completely fit to play at that time. However, it looks like that has changed!

A tweet from Chloe Peterson, a reporter from IndyStar, put the minds of Indiana Fever fans at ease! “CC and Sophie Cunningham working in practice once again. DB is out again today for personal reasons.” The post on X read, landing some exciting news for Caitlin Clark and Fever fans alike. Both the Indiana guards looked to be in excellent shape as they were shown shooting around with the rest of the team.

However, what becomes concerning is DeWanna Bonner’s absence. According to Peterson, the six-foot-four guard is unavailable to attend practice due to personal reasons.

As a veteran leader and one of the Fever’s most reliable scorers, Bonner’s presence is critical for team morale and on-court stability. While head coach Stephanie White has not detailed why Bonner remains out, simply saying she’s unavailable, her absence comes at a critical juncture as the Fever prepare to face a formidable New York Liberty team.

But the news does not stop there, not at all! Chloe Peterson remained on top of the situation, and was the harbinger of good news for Fever fans.

According to head coach Stephanie White, both Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham are available to play tomorrow barring any physical regressions. However, she doesn’t anticipate that Bonner, a well-accomplished WNBA vet, will be back from her personal reasons for tomorrow. But nevertheless, it’s a day to celebrate for the Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark in particular! And the six-foot-tall point guard set the tone before her return to the court. Let’s find out more!

Caitlin Clark’s pumped and ready to go!

Let’s be honest, Caitlin Clark is one of the greatest competitors of all time. The fire inside of her to win, to play, and to battle among her trusted friends and colleagues? It’s impeccable. And it seems like she only hoops to win in any game, any circumstance, and every practice!

Before the final announcement that CC and Sophie Cunningham would be available for tomorrow’s game, the six-foot-tall point guard put her skills on display, reminding the world why she’s considered so great so early! In the Indiana Fever’s pregame rituals, there’s a half court contest, but for Clark? It’s an opportunity to prove herself.

According to a tweet by Chloe Peterson, “Caitlin Clark has won the pregame half court contest (a rare instance). First runs out of the practice court in celebration, then yells “go cry about it” while waving her money around as her teammates are missing their shots.” And there aren’t many signs that are better for Fever fans!

It looks like Caitlin Clark is in the groove for any challenges that may come against the super-strong Liberty team.

The timing of Clark and Cunningham’s return couldn’t be more critical, as the Fever face the New York Liberty, a team riding high with one of the league’s top defenses. Led by Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, the Liberty have dominated recent matchups, including a two-point win over the Fever earlier this season.

Seeing Clark shoot, win, and compete again after twenty days was a sight for sore eyes. Not to mention, the confidence that she builds now will be crucial for her return to sport protocol moving forward.

There’s no doubt that Caitlin Clark’s absence has been missed in the W. However, as we’re on the edge of getting her back again, all seems right in the world! We’re expecting viewership, ticket sales, and a lot more to skyrocket once more, as the WNBA climbs back to its popularity and respect. Stay tuned for all the action!