Caitlin Clark had an unplanned break in transmission mid-game, but that did not stop the motion!

The WNBA star was captured taking a breather as her team got ready for the second half of a game against the Atlanta Dream, and it was to get a few things out of her system.

Caitlin Clark suffered some injuries last year, causing her to miss out on two games as she proceeded into her third season. She made history as the fastest player in the WNBA to rack up 1,000 career points and 500 career assists.

Caitlin Clark Hit 17 Points, While Angel Reese Managed 11

Clark had an unexpected setback during the Indiana Fever’s Commissioner’s Cup matchup against the Atlanta Dream, but she still helped lead her team to victory.

The baller looked visibly unwell during the game and shortly left the floor for the second half to locate the nearest trash can. 

Despite the moment, Clark returned to action and played through the discomfort. After the game, Clark explained she had been feeling under the weather and attempted to eat applesauce before heading back onto the court, but her stomach did not cooperate. 

Subsequently, she reported feeling lighter and more comfortable when she resumed play.  Her playing speed stayed consistent as always, with Clark finishing with 17 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists to help Indiana secure an 83–71 win.

As noted by TMZ, conversely, longtime rival Angel Reese had 11 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists on the losing end. 

The No. 1 Overall Pick In The 2024 WNBA Draft Announced An Early End To Her Season Last Year

Clark, who suffered a groin injury in the last 15 minutes against the Connecticut Sun, admitted in 2025 that she will not return as she continues to heal.

The Fever star had established a reputation for being a game-time veteran before this year, having played every game in her college career and rookie season with the WNBA. As reported by The Blast, her recent injury, however, required her to spend time away from the court for the first time. 

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Clark revealed the news to fans and posted a series of black and white photos, each one capturing a significant moment from her journey: moments with supporters, moments with teammates, moments on the court, and much more.

However, in her message, Clark acknowledged that she would have liked to have good news to bring, and she also disclosed that she had worked hard to recover. Ultimately, she said recovery did not progress as planned and acknowledged how difficult the decision has been.

She also thanked the fans, teammates, and everyone who walked along with her in this uncertain period and thanked them for all their support.

Caitlin Clark’s Groin Injury During The Connecticut Sun Game Caused Her Shocking Exit

It was certainly not an easy decision for Clark, as the announcement came after she suffered a second crushing groin injury in July during her match against the Connecticut Sun as the game neared its closing minute.

The injury, which forced Clark to leave the court, happened shortly after she delivered a bounce-pass assist to teammate Kelsey Mitchell for an easy basket. 

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White said in a post-game interview that Clark was feeling pain in her groin and was not able to continue. This was a setback four games after she missed a previous match due to a left groin injury. 

Prior to the season, she had never missed a game throughout college or her professional career in the WNBA. But the wounds ultimately plagued her with a 10-game absence and destroyed her streak of consecutive starts. 

At the time, Clark said she was disappointed that she could not be there, but that she would support her teammates from the sideline.

Angel Reese Took Over May With A Historic Rebounding Feat

Clark’s rival delivered an outstanding performance last month when she helped the Atlanta Dream secure an 86-66 win over the Portland Fire. Reese reportedly finished the night with an impressive 18 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, which shot her team into victory.

Of course, the superstar had the golden opportunity to add all these milestones to her growing resume, which features a total of 900 rebounds, and a record of becoming the fastest league player to reach that mark in just 71 games.

Reese informed interviewers post-game that her rebound records are not a coincidence, as it remains one of the most dependable parts of her game regardless of her performance on offense. In her words:

“I wanted to take pride in that tonight and going in there and getting those extra second-chance points, but also opportunities to my teammates to kick out on the three.”

Reese’s former coach, Teresa Weatherspoon, testified to her playing prowess in 2024, declaring her a hard worker who never fails to update her stats page with incredible performances.

Caitlin Clark’s Response To Criticisms About Her Emotions During Games 

The Indiana Fever star has had an eventful week since a viral sideline moment with head coach Stephanie White last weekend during the Portland Fire’s 100–84 defeat.

It was the Fever’s game before a matchup with the Atlanta Dream on Thursday, June 5, but most of the discussion after the game revolved around Clark’s on-court emotions.

As one of the WNBA’s most recognizable figures, Clark often finds herself under intense public scrutiny. As noted by Yahoo Sports, Clark’s emotions and expressions in games have been a subject of criticism in recent days.

Clark, in her attention speech leading up to Thursday’s game, pointed out that the attention she has received has not been a distraction to her. She said sometimes people tell her what is being said online, but she does not spend time scrolling through social media or reading comments about herself.

Clark continued that her on-court demeanor is an area in which she will always be looking to improve, but noted that her emotions are directly connected to the player she has become.

She shared that her competitive spirit and intensity can sometimes be viewed negatively, but they are also key qualities behind her success. Clark added that the passion, drive, and fire are what propel her game and what the fans feel when they watch her play.

Hopefully, Caitlin Clark stays away from that apple sauce in subsequent games!