Caitlin Clark's 2025 WNBA season was cut short by injuries, ultimately sidelining her in July—a tough break for the Indiana Fever star and their fans. Now, as the 2026 preseason tips off, there's an unsettling sense of déjà vu after Thursday night's game against the Dallas Wings.

In the third quarter of the preseason matchup, Clark was forced to exit after an apparent ankle injury. The incident occurred as she attempted a three-pointer and landed on the foot of Wings forward Alanna Smith. Despite the awkward landing, Clark showed her trademark toughness, trying to walk it off and even sinking two of three free throws after Smith was hit with a flagrant foul. However, she ultimately left the game shortly afterward.

According to The Athletic, Clark didn't retreat to the locker room—she remained on the bench, where trainers examined her. That's a promising sign, suggesting the Fever might have pulled her as a precautionary measure given the preseason context.

For a player of Clark's caliber—who's already become a must-watch talent in the league—any injury scare sends ripples through the basketball world. Here's hoping this is just a minor blip and not a repeat of last year's woes. Stay tuned for updates as we monitor her status heading into the regular season.