Caitlin Clark says there was one WNBA team she didn’t want to play for when she entered the 2024 draft — the Los Angeles Sparks.
Speaking on the Bird’s Eye View podcast with former Seattle Storm star Sue Bird, the 23-year-old Indiana Fever guard said her preference was for Indiana to get the top pick.
“I didn’t want to go to LA, but I wanted Indiana to get the first pick,” Clark said. “I think Indiana was a good spot for me to start my professional career.”
Clark said her preference for Indiana went beyond basketball fit, pointing to the connection she feels with the region she grew up in.
“I’m a Midwest gal,” Clark said. “I think the franchise was in a place of having the type of core players that could help make me successful, too. Like, we have AB. Kels was here. Lex was here. And I think that was really attractive.”
WNBA Draft Night Whirlwind
After leading Iowa to the national championship game, Clark had just one day at home before beginning a demanding media schedule. One that could have been more typical had she landed with the Sparks.
“We make it to the national championship, I go back to Iowa for literally a day, then I go to LA, then I go to New York, you have so many obligations,” Clark said. “Then you get drafted and the next morning you’re on Good Morning America, then you fly to Indianapolis to meet everybody at your new organization.”
She described draft night as more stressful than celebratory, admitting she was “so upset” to miss celebrating with friends and family and to watch her college teammates’ draft moments. The quick transition from college basketball’s biggest stage to professional obligations left little time to process the milestone.
Welcome to Bird’s Eye View, @CaitlinClark22 🧡
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— Bird’s Eye View (@BEVpod_) August 8, 2025
Caitlin Clark Faces Ongoing Injury Recovery
Clark has been sidelined since July 15 with a right groin injury suffered in a game against the Connecticut Sun. The Fever announced last month that further medical evaluations showed no additional damage, but there remains no timetable for her return.
“This has given me a really good perspective on what many of my teammates and fellow players have been through,” Clark said. “I’ve never been through anything like this and I think that’s probably why it’s been so hard, because I’ve never really dealt with injury.”
This season has been plagued by injuries for Clark, including left quad and groin issues, limiting her to just 13 of the Fever’s 32 games so far. She is averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists.
The Fever have also lost Sydney Colson (ACL tear) and Aari McDonald (broken foot) for the year, leaving the roster stretched thin. Head coach Stephanie White has acknowledged the challenge but praised the team’s resilience.
Despite being sidelined, Clark has stayed engaged — attending games, signing autographs, and supporting teammates. While the Fever remain cautious with her rehab to avoid further setbacks, her presence continues to energize fans and the locker room.
