Caitlin Clark injury update offers insight Fever fans already knew

Caitlin Clark was available to the media Thursday afternoon, marking the first time she has spoken since suffering a quad strain against the New York Liberty back on May 24. In the session, she expressed how impatient she is with being unavailable for competition. That competitive side shouldn't surprise any Fever fans.

Many were disappointed to hear the lack of information surrounding her return, although not surprised. When the news initially broke, her earliest timetable to return was two weeks, which would be a matchup against the Atlanta Dream on June 10.

The Fever can't afford to risk long-term consequences

Growing impatient isn't just a trait of her fans, Clark is also feeling it just as equally. Although being able to coach from the side has allowed her to learn the game from a different angle, she expressed the eagerness to get back out with her teammates. Being on the bench has also been testing her patience.

"I love practice. I love getting better...I've never been a patient person my entire life so this is definitely testing me," Clark said.

Despite not providing an exact return date, she is optimistic it will be sooner rather than later, given the success of her rehab. Clark couldn't tell reporters exactly what play or what move caused the injury, but the discomfort she felt early on in the game against New York is what led to an MRI showing the quad strain.

Being impatient and returning to the rotation sooner than ready can be lethal to a team and have long-term consequences for any player. One thing fans can expect is that head coach Stephanie White will be diligent and cautious in her approach to incorporating Clark back into the lineup. Fans need to remember there are more games on the schedule, not including postseason, should the Fever reach it.

It's a championship-or-bust season for the Fever, and having their star player miss significant time due to a season-long nagging injury can be detrimental. This is exactly why Clark needs to be patient and only come back when she knows her body is ready.

The team had an impressive come-from-behind win Tuesday night, defeating the Washington Mystics 85-76, which has the team headed in the right direction. Clark also emphasized to the reporters the importance of continuing to be present and supporting her teammates in any way she can. All signs are pointing to a near return for Clark, and fans better believe she will pick up where she left off.