The Indiana Fever are gearing up for a pivotal showdown against the undefeated New York Liberty this Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This highly anticipated WNBA Commissioner's Cup matchup promises excitement, especially with key updates on player availability that could significantly impact the game's outcome.
Head coach Stephanie White provided an encouraging update on Friday regarding the status of star guards Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham. Both players have been sidelined due to injuries but are expected to return to action barring any setbacks during their final preparations.
Clark has been absent since suffering a left quadriceps strain on May 24 during a previous encounter with the Liberty. This injury marked the first time in her entire collegiate and professional career that she missed games. Clark played an impressive 139 consecutive games at Iowa before joining the Fever, where she continued her ironwoman streak by participating in the first 46 games since 2020. Her absence has been felt, as Indiana’s offensive production dipped, averaging 77.6 points per game without her on the court.
Coach White expressed optimism about Clark’s recovery, noting improvements in her movement and balance. "She's working her way back," White told reporters. "I felt like today was better than yesterday in terms of just movement, balance and feeling like she's getting back into rhythm, timing, all those things. As long as we don't have any regression, she's going to be ready to roll." This suggests that Clark's return could provide a much-needed boost to the Fever’s offense, especially against a Liberty team that boasts a perfect 9-0 record.
Similarly, Sophie Cunningham has been out with a right ankle injury sustained during the Fever’s May 31 loss to the Connecticut Sun. Her return is equally anticipated, with White commenting, "Sophie looked really good. Her timing was good. Getting back into game rhythm and timing is the most important thing, and then being able to change directions. So they both look good." Cunningham’s absence has also impacted Indiana’s scoring, with the team averaging 74 points per game since she went down.
Both Clark and Cunningham were held out of the Fever’s recent game on June 10 in Atlanta, which resulted in a 77-58 loss to the Dream. Their reintegration into the lineup for Saturday’s game is expected to enhance Indiana’s offensive fluidity and competitiveness against the formidable Liberty squad.
However, the Fever will be without veteran guard DeWanna Bonner, who is sidelined for personal reasons. The 37-year-old, on a one-year contract worth $200,000, has been a key figure for the team despite a challenging start to the season. Bonner was moved from a starting role to the bench but still contributed an average of 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals over nine games, playing roughly 21.4 minutes per contest.
Bonner last appeared on the court during the June 10 loss to Atlanta, logging 20 minutes with five points, two rebounds, and two assists. Since then, she has missed two consecutive practices and will not suit up against the Liberty. Coach White addressed Bonner's status, emphasizing the team's support: "I think she's doing as well as she can be right now. We're going to continue to support her and give her the time that she needs. I don't anticipate her being here (Saturday), and just with her right now, it's supporting her and giving her what she needs." The absence of Bonner leaves a noticeable gap in the Fever's rotation, especially given her veteran presence and versatility on both ends of the court.
The stage is set for an intriguing battle between Indiana’s 4-5 squad and the New York Liberty, who remain undefeated at 9-0. The Fever will look to capitalize on the return of their dynamic backcourt duo, Clark and Cunningham, to challenge the Liberty’s dominance. The game kicks off at 3:00 p.m. EST (2:00 p.m. CT) and will be broadcast live on ABC as part of the Commissioner's Cup festivities. Fans can also stream the game via ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling, and the WNBA League Pass.
Historically, the Indiana Fever have relied heavily on Caitlin Clark’s scoring and playmaking abilities. Her ability to control the tempo and create opportunities has been a cornerstone of the team’s strategy since her arrival. Losing her for five games was a significant setback, but her anticipated return could mark a turning point in the Fever’s season. Likewise, Cunningham’s defensive tenacity and shooting accuracy provide balance, making her return equally critical.
Meanwhile, the Liberty have been a powerhouse this season, blending veteran leadership with emerging talent, making them a formidable opponent. Their undefeated streak speaks volumes about their consistency and depth. For the Fever, this game is more than just a regular season contest; it’s a chance to prove their resilience and reassert themselves in the league standings.
Coach Stephanie White’s leadership will be under the spotlight as she manages the reintegration of key players while adjusting for Bonner’s absence. Her optimistic yet cautious approach to Clark and Cunningham’s recovery highlights the delicate balance between urgency and prudence in player health management.
As the Fever prepare to face the Liberty, all eyes will be on how the team adapts and performs with its evolving roster. The return of Clark and Cunningham injects hope and excitement, but overcoming the Liberty’s unbeaten record remains a daunting challenge. The game promises to be a thrilling chapter in the WNBA Commissioner's Cup and a critical moment for Indiana’s season trajectory.
With the Fever’s offense poised for a boost and the Liberty’s defense tested by returning stars, this matchup could very well define the momentum for both teams in the coming weeks. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Indiana’s key players can reclaim their rhythm and lead the team to a much-needed victory.
