It happened again. Just as it had nine days earlier: The Indiana Fever collapsed in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Sparks.
The Fever had a four-point lead with 1:43 left only to lose 89-87, ending a three-game winning streak again with Caitlin Clark sidelined with a left groin strain. The Fever are 3-2 in her most recent absence.
Two stout defensive performances were undone Saturday night against the Sparks, who won by 10 with a fourth-quarter comeback June 26, also at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Of two teams who love to score in the paint, the Fever gained the edge 46-42 But the Sparks stayed in the game with efficient 3-point shooting, knocking down 10 of 22 3s. There were 10 ties and 12 lead changes, including Rickea Jackson’s go-ahead jump shot with 58.1 seconds left.
When will Caitlin Clark play, return from injury?
Caitlin Clark has not played in the Fever’s last five games after suffering a left groin strain. It was the latest in an up-and-down season in which she missed time during the preseason, too.
Clark doesn’t want to play on a minutes restriction, and coach Stephanie White said the Fever still value her long-term health. Clark did go through semi-live shooting drills and 3-on-3 action in Friday’s practice.
”She’s stated she’s not a fan of minute restrictions,” White said after practice Friday. “If there is going to be a minutes restriction, maybe we’ll hold her another game. I prioritize her long-term health and wellness and making sure that when she comes back, she’s 100%.”
The Fever host the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday, the Atlanta Dream on July 11 and Dallas Wings on July 13. The Fever then go on the road July 15 at the Connecticut Sun and July 16 at the New York Liberty before hosting the WNBA All-Star Game.
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Indiana Fever vs Los Angeles Sparks stats, box score
Fever stats: How many points did Aliyah Boston score?
Sparks stats: How many points did Kelsey Plum score?
Fever vs Sparks score by quarter
Indiana Fever schedule: When do Caitlin Clark, Fever play next?
The Fever again play at Gainbridge Fieldhouse as they host the Golden State Valkyries at noon July 9.
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana Fever vs Los Angeles Sparks box score: Aliyah Boston, Kelsey Plum final stats
Reporting by Aaron Ferguson, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
