In the United States, Caitlin Clark made her much-anticipated return to the Indiana Fever after missing two games due to a back injury. The Fever faced the Los Angeles Sparks on July 5, 2026, but Clark's comeback did not go as planned. She was restricted to just 16 minutes of play, which significantly impacted her performance. Clark finished the game with only 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, contributing to the Fever's 106-92 loss. The Sparks, despite being shorthanded without key players Kelsey Plum and Cameron Brink, managed to dominate the game. Head coach Stephanie White's decision to limit Clark's minutes was a cautious approach aimed at ensuring her health after a series of injuries. Clark had previously expressed her frustration with minutes restrictions, stating that she preferred to play only when fully fit. However, after a year of dealing with injuries, she acknowledged the necessity of easing back into full game shape. The Fever's strategy to manage her return raised questions about their effectiveness, especially as they struggled against a depleted Sparks team. During the game, Clark struggled to find her rhythm, which was exacerbated by the stop-and-go nature of her playing time. She noted that it was challenging to get into a flow with such limited minutes, which hindered her ability to contribute effectively. Despite her struggles, Clark remained optimistic about her physical condition, stating that she felt great and was not winded. However, the performance highlighted the difficulties of returning to competitive play after an injury. Following the loss, it was announced that Clark would not play in the next game against the Phoenix Mercury, as the Fever continued to prioritize her health and recovery. The cautious approach taken by the Fever's coaching staff reflects their desire to avoid further injuries, especially given Clark's history of back issues that have affected other parts of her body. The Fever's current record stands at 12-9, and the team must navigate the remainder of the season while managing Clark's health and performance.