Indiana Fever legend Tamika Catchings discussed how she believes Caitlin Clark’s mindset will change as she heads into her third WNBA season. Clark was limited to 13 games last season after suffering a series of quad and groin injuries, last playing in July 2025.
During an interview with Sports Illustrated, Catchings suggested that the Fever’s growth last season should take the pressure off Clark.
“I think for Caitlin … one thing that she doesn’t have to do is come back and put the team on her back, and think that she has to carry them,” Catchings said. “It’s also a good thing that the players had to play without her … and the other supporting players. The team had to play without her and other players, so now it’s about trusting your teammates. I know some of them are already in town, working out and preparing for the season.”
Apart from Clark’s injury struggles, the Fever also spent a majority of their season without role players, even losing Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham. Indiana signed Aari McDonald and Chloe Bibby on hardship contracts to offset their thin roster, but even they suffered injuries.
Despite dealing with a depleted roster, Stephanie White led the team to the WNBA semifinals, where they lost to last season’s champions, the Las Vegas Aces, in five games.
Tamika Catchings enjoyed a storied career with the Indiana Fever, spending 15 seasons with the team. She accumulated five Defensive Player of the Year awards, 12 All-Defensive teams, 12 All-WNBA teams, and led Indiana to a championship in 2012, winning Finals MVP.
Catchings played 458 games, averaging 16.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.4 steals per game, shooting 41.5%.
Caitlin Clark outlines Indiana Fever’s championship expectations
Caitlin Clark made her second appearance on NBC’s pre-game NBA broadcast on Sunday. During her appearance, Clark spoke about the Fever’s expectations for next season, calling the team favorites for the title.
“I think we’re gonna be the favorite to win it all. I think it adds a little pressure, but that’s what you love about it. But we’ve got a great squad, great coach, great support staff. So, super excited,” Clark said.
Clark is expected to make her return to the WNBA on Apr. 25 when the Fever take on the New York Liberty in their first preseason matchup.
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