Caitlin Clark unfortunately could not take part in WNBA All-Star activities due to a groin injury sustained in the win over the Connecticut Sun, but she is hoping to return soon

Caitlin Clark served as a team captain but was unable to play in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game(Image: Getty Images)

Caitlin Clark believes social media is a “false perception of reality” amid the constant conversation surrounding the Indiana Fever superstar.

Clark was ruled out of the All-Star Game with a minor groin injury, which was a shame as the sophomore was voted a captain alongside Napheesa Collier. She could not play in Indianapolis before her home fans, but she still participated in the festivities.

The All-Star Game and weekend were a key platform for the players, coinciding with critical ongoing negotiations between the WNBPA and the league as players push for sweeping changes ahead of the current CBA’s expiration on October 31. On national TV, All-Stars – including Clark, who has taken the league by storm since arriving as a rookie last season – donned shirts that read, “Pay Us What You Owe Us” to the delight of onwatching fans as CBA negotiations continue.

Clark’s participation in the demonstration is important, as her star power ensures she is a true needle-mover in the WNBA. There is a seemingly never-ending discourse about her on TV and online, even in a year that has seen her 2025 campaign plagued by injuries.

While she is involved in plenty of negative conversation, Clark is adamant there is a disconnect between online criticism and real-life support she feels from fans around the country. She made the point clear during a live podcast episode of ‘A Touch More’ with WNBA legend Sue Bird and USWNT great Megan Rapinoe.

“You have to remember, social media is such a false perception of reality,” Clark said. “Even for myself, you don’t always realize that at times. It’s not the real world.

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“When I show up to arenas, those are the moments that really remind me of how many people are really there supporting and loving [me]. The little boys and the little girls, those aren’t the people that are on social media caring about every decision you make or every comment you make.”

Caitlin Clark left the Fever’s win over the Sun with a groin injury that ruined her All-Star Game hopes(Image: Getty Images)

She added: “At the same time, I just try to show up every day and be myself and be authentically me.

“Whether that’s hard questions or hard moments, whatever it is, I think you kinda just take it as it goes. I always try to remind myself how lucky I am to be here and be in this position too.”

Clark has reached a level of stardom, which means every move she makes and word she says is scrutinized. But the 23-year-old seems relaxed, understanding that being one of the faces of her league and sport comes with the mantle of being one of the faces of her league and sport.

Following the All-Star Game, Clark took to X to post about the week and thank the fans who attended. She wrote: “Incredible weekend in Indy!!

“Our organization gave everything to make this the best WNBA All-Star Weekend yet—and it delivered in every way. Grateful to call this city home and beyond thankful for the incredible fans who brought the energy and made it special.”

Clark is progressing with her groin injury, according to Fever head coach Stephanie White, but she is not expected to return to the court against the New York Liberty in her team’s first game since the break. She is averaging 16.5 points per game along with 8.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds in 2025.