Indiana Fever Struggle Adjusting to Caitlin Clark's Return, Fall to Golden State

The Indiana Fever have experienced fluctuating success in the 2025 WNBA season, with star guard Caitlin Clark's return from injury raising questions about the team's offensive consistency and chemistry. Sophie Cunningham has been pivotal, delivering strong performances such as a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double against the Atlanta Dream, and she has openly discussed the adjustments required when Clark is on the court versus when she is sidelined. Cunningham noted that the Fever play almost like two different teams depending on Clark's presence, requiring a new offensive approach to integrate Clark's ball-dominant style. Despite Clark's shooting slump and the team's loss to the Golden State Valkyries upon her return, her playmaking remains elite, and teammates like Cunningham appreciate her contributions while also recognizing the need for team adaptation. Analysts and teammates have debated whether the Fever are more effective without Clark, highlighting the complexity of balancing team flow with the star guard's dominant role. Moving forward, maintaining Clark's health and finding offensive rhythm with her in the lineup are seen as key to the Fever realizing their potential.