Will Caitlin Clark play 2026 season opener? Indiana Fever release game schedule

Caitlin Clark’s return timeline has become one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Indiana Fever as the WNBA moves closer to its 2026 season. After a frustrating second year derailed by injuries, the standout Fever star is showing promising sign. The Fever confirmed their full 2026 schedule this week as it is expected to add Clark in the starting line-up.The announcement arrives during a tense period for the league, with the WNBA and players union still negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement. Even so, the release of the schedule signals confidence that the season will move forward as planned. Indiana is focusing on the players health, preparation and Clark is expected to be ready when the season tips off in May.Caitlin Clark’s second WNBA campaign ended early after a right groin injury forced Indiana to shut her down midway through the 2025 season. She appeared in 13 games, averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists while playing more than 31 minutes per night.Now, recent reports suggest that Clark has fully recovered from the groin issue and participated in Team USA training camp in December. Still, signs point toward availability once the season begins, provided the league calendar remains intact.Away from formal competition, Clark has stayed active. A January social media post captured her throwing deep passes on the Pacers practice court. One clip carried the caption, “Someone sign me,” while another read, “This is what I’m really dealing with.”The Fever open the 2026 season at home on May 9 against the Dallas Wings, setting up a marquee matchup between Clark and Paige Bueckers. Indiana will also face the Chicago Sky three times, beginning June 11 in a Commissioner’s Cup game that renews Clark’s rivalry with Angel Reese.Indiana meets the defending champion Las Vegas Aces three times, starting July 5 in Las Vegas. The regular season concludes Sept. 24 on the road against the Minnesota Lynx, with the WNBA Playoffs scheduled to begin three days later. Indiana has reached the postseason in consecutive seasons and aims to extend that run.League-wide, the 2026 season marks the WNBA’s 30th year, featuring 44 games per team and the addition of Toronto and Portland. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said, “As we prepare to tip off the WNBA’s historic 30th season, this schedule reflects both how far the league has come and the momentum that continues to drive us forward.”Check out the full schedule:As for Fever fans, all eyes on Clark’s return to the floor.