Caitlin Clark watched on as the Indiana Fever nearly made it to the 2025 WNBA Finals without her, pushing A’ja Wilson and eventual champion Las Vegas Aces to Game 5 of the semifinals. However, despite forcing overtime, the Fever’s injury woes finally caught up to them, falling 107-98 and ending their season.
Indiana was forced to play the entire postseason without numerous key players, including Clark and Sophie Cunningham, who suffered a season-ending MCL tear. In fact, Clark was only able to play in 13 games in 2025 due to numerous health issues, yet she still managed an All-Star nod after averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game.
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Before she was a star in the WNBA, Clark rose to fame during her time in college with the Iowa Hawkeyes, breaking the NCAA’s all-time scoring record. The school has produced numerous star professional athletes from multiple leagues, including the Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean and San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle.
Former Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) shoots the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the 2024 NCAA Tournament.Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
On Sunday, Kittle’s 49ers advanced to the divisional round of the NFL playoffs after defeating DeJean’s Eagles 23-19 in the wild card round, ending their season. Kittle only managed one catch on two targets for six yards, while DeJean tallied two tackles and two passes defended.
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However, after recording his lone catch midway through the third quarter, Kittle was forced to leave the game with what appeared to be a leg injury. He was later diagnosed with a torn Achilles, ending his playoff run and putting his 2026 season in jeopardy. And on Monday, Kittle shared an update on Instagram following the injury.
“Football sucks sometimes,” Kittle wrote. “But I love it. I love these guys and this team. Heartbroken but have felt so much love and support from everyone reaching out. I’ll be good. Thank you. We aren’t done yet! Also when your team owner is the first person to meet you in the locker room, you know you’re in a special place. 🥃 cheers, all my love.”
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Shortly after the post went online, Clark was quick to share a message for her fellow Iowa alum, ensuring he would return at full strength: “You’re gonna be back better than ever !!! We are proud of you!!!!!”
While Clark continues her offseason, hoping to get back to full strength herself for the 2026 WNBA season, the 49ers will continue the postseason without Kittle in the divisional round, hitting the road to face Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks.
Related: Caitlin Clark’s Iowa Teammate Gabbie Marshall Announces Move to Indiana
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.