Caitlin Clark missed some time for the Indiana Fever last season, but she is ready to make up for it. She’s been busy since recovering from the injuries that caused her to miss the latter part of the 2025 WNBA season, including playing in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.
She has also been tearing it up in the preseason, even though she had to leave during the third quarter of a loss to the Dallas Wings last Thursday. She is back at practice, and her camp said the injury is not a concern.
Clark said two weeks ago that she is in great shape health-wise and ready to kick off the season.
“More than anything, I’m just really excited. I feel really healthy and feel like I’ve put myself in a position to be as healthy as I can be to start the season,” she said in an interview with IndyStar.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark gestures down the court Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
All eyes are on Clark, who over the past three years has been the main attraction in women’s basketball. She has captivated fans, including her former rivals.
Clark made a personal update on Instagram to preview her third year, and Raven Johnson—her new teammate and former college rival—had just one word to say:
“Tuffy,” the rookie guard wrote in the comments.
It was not just Johnson who is excited about Clark’s year. The optimism is off the roofs that her teammates and followers predict a great season for her.
Some think it is her time to win the MVP.
“MVP loading 🔥🔥,” a commenter wrote.
“Your year my girl,” photographer and Clark’s friend Bri Lewerke wrote.
Teammates were also very supportive.
“third times the charm. let’s get it 🤍,” Lexie Hull said.
“Another year with my bookie😍😍😍 let’s goooooo,” Aliyah Boston commented.
The Fever are regarded as contenders this season following their breakthrough in 2025. The New York Liberty are the favorites according to the latest championship odds, followed by the defending champion Las Vegas Aces.
The Fever are third, while the Atlanta Dream sit in fourth place.
As for the MVP award, Clark is the favorite at +225, with A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Alyssa Thomas close behind.
Related: Fever Coach Stephanie White Reacts to Caitlin Clark’s Decision to Wear Leg Sleeve
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.