WNBA Warns Fever Following Controversial Caitlin Clark Move

It was not just the injury but the timeline that raised eyebrows.

Clark did not practice on Tuesday and was not on the injury report the day prior. But she was officially scratched after the pregame walk-through just under two hours before the game with no previous sign she might sit.

The late call immediately drew criticism from fans and analysts alike, who questioned if Indiana followed WNBA injury reporting protocols.

Those concerns have now been taken up formally by the league.

The WNBA has sent a memo to the Indiana Fever regarding their handling of Clark’s injury designation before the game, Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files reports.

Under WNBA injury reporting rules, teams have until 5 p.m. to submit and update injury reports. Eastern the day prior to a game and update if status changes materially prior to tip-off.

In this case, the Fever initially reported no injury concerns with Clark despite her missing practice, then downgraded her to out late in game day after indicating she would play.

The WNBA issuing a warning means the league believes the Fever violated league rules regarding injury reporting but not enough to warrant formal punishment such as a fine or suspension at least for now.

If this happens again the WNBA could easily go to fines more stringent penalties or repeat-offender discipline.

It was worse because it was Clark. She’s the biggest draw in the league and there’s a very good chance that the majority of people in the building that night were there to see her play.

This doesn’t do much to help coach Stephanie White either, who has been under fire for her management of Clark’s workload and injury-related availability.

Some of that frustration is due to perceived inconsistency in messaging around Clark’s health and usage, especially after previous injury concerns and load management questions dating back to last season.

Looking ahead it appears the Fever have escaped harsh penalties. Clark was listed as “probable” for their next game against the Golden State Valkyries on Friday, meaning the injury isn’t considered to be a long-term one.

But cases like this, especially if Clark is involved, will be watched closely by the league, no doubt.