WNBA Playoff Race Heats Up! Fever's Fate & Clark's Injury Update

By: Marcelo Colombo Published On: 02/09/2025

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The WNBA regular season is nearing its end, and the playoff picture is getting intense! Several teams are still battling for a coveted playoff spot, including the defending champion New York Liberty. Let's dive into the latest standings and key matchups that will determine who makes the cut.

Liberty's Playoff Push

The New York Liberty, led by Sabrina Ionescu, currently hold a 24-16 record, placing them fifth in the league standings. They had an opportunity to clinch a playoff berth on Sunday but needed either a Los Angeles Sparks loss to the Washington Mystics or a Golden State Valkyries loss to the Indiana Fever. However, with both LA and Golden State securing wins, the Liberty will have to wait a bit longer to secure their spot.

The Liberty still control their own destiny, needing just one win to clinch a playoff berth. Their next opponent? The Golden State Valkyries on Tuesday. This matchup is crucial for both teams.

Fever's Playoff Hopes Dwindle

The Indiana Fever, playing without Caitlin Clark for the 18th consecutive game, suffered a 75-63 loss to the Golden State Valkyries on Sunday night. Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 14 points. This loss dropped the Fever from sixth to eighth in the WNBA standings, as Golden State and the Seattle Storm leapfrogged them.

Caitlin Clark's Injury Status

Speaking of Caitlin Clark, fans are eager to know when she'll return. Clark has been sidelined with a right groin injury and will miss the Fever's road game against the Valkyries. There's currently no timetable for her return. The Fever have been cautious with her recovery, aiming for a long playoff run. However, their recent performance has put their playoff hopes in jeopardy.

Aliyah Boston emphasized the team's resilience, stating, "From the start of our season, we talked about how a season isn't going to be perfect. If something happens, next woman up. I feel like that's been the story of our season."

WNBA Standings Update

Here's a look at the current WNBA standings:

Minnesota Lynx: 31-8 (clinched)
Las Vegas Aces: 26-14 (clinched)
Atlanta Dream: 25-14 (clinched)
Phoenix Mercury: 25-14 (clinched)
New York Liberty: 24-16
Golden State Valkyries: 21-18
Seattle Storm: 22-19
Indiana Fever: 21-19
Los Angeles Sparks: 18-20

The Washington Mystics, Connecticut Sun, Chicago Sky, and Dallas Wings have been eliminated from playoff contention.

Key Matchup: Fever vs. Valkyries

The Fever's road trip continues with a crucial game against the Golden State Valkyries. The Valkyries are 2-0 against the Fever this season and have already secured the head-to-head tiebreaker. With a win, they would further solidify their playoff position and push the Fever closer to elimination.

Will the Fever be able to turn things around and secure a playoff spot, or will the Valkyries continue their dominance? Stay tuned for more WNBA updates!