The Indiana Fever are set to face the Chicago Sky in a home game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday, August 9, 2025, with a significantly depleted roster. The Fever will be without star guard Caitlin Clark, who is still recovering from a right groin injury sustained in the second-to-last game before the All-Star break. To further complicate matters, guards Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald have been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering injuries during Thursday's game against the Phoenix Mercury.

Colson tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee during the first quarter, while McDonald suffered a broken bone in her right foot during the same game. With Clark already sidelined, the loss of Colson and McDonald leaves the Fever without a single healthy point guard.

Coach Stephanie White has not provided a firm timeline for Clark's return, emphasizing the priority is on her long-term health and well-being. Clark is reportedly doing full-speed running, but is not yet participating in full basketball activities with the team. The Fever released an update on July 24, stating that further medical evaluations confirmed no additional damage and that Clark is continuing rehab.

The absence of Clark, Colson, and McDonald presents a significant challenge for the Fever. McDonald, who was averaging 9.8 points, 4.7 assists, and 1.3 steals, had emerged as a key part of the team early this season. Colson, who was acquired as a free agent in February, was averaging 2.4 points and 2.0 assists in 30 games with Indiana.

Due to the injuries to Colson and McDonald, the Fever's roster has been reduced to nine healthy players. According to league rules, the team qualifies to sign a player on a hardship contract but will not be able to do so until after the game against Chicago.

Despite Clark's absence, the Fever have performed well, recently securing a five-game winning streak. However, without their star player and two other key guards, they will face a tough test against the Chicago Sky. The Sky will also be without a key player, as Angel Reese is sidelined with a back injury.

Tickets for the game were nearly sold out before Clark's injury, but many are available on the secondary market.

The Fever are 6-1 against the Sky since last season. Their most recent encounter was on July 27, where the Fever won 93-78.