Caitlin Clark revealed she still does not have 100% confidence in her fitness levels after returning for the Indiana Fever's 90-82 win over the Golden State Valkyries on Friday. 

Clark was absent for a 90-73 success against the Portland Fire on Wednesday, having featured in each of the Fever's first four games to start the WNBA campaign.

Upon her return against Golden State, Clark – the number one overall pick in 2024 – had a game-high 22 points as well as adding nine assists and making four of nine 3-pointers.

But, having been limited to 13 games last season due to a variety of injures, Clark still feels a need to be cautious over her playing time.

"These are the best players in the world, and if I don't feel 100% confident in my body on Game 5 of the year, I don't know if that's really worth it in that scenario," Clark said on Friday, when asked about her decision to skip the Portland game.

"I thought she was great [...] From a physicality standpoint, I love the way she's going to the rim and finishing tough plays, and her defense was really good."

Stephanie White on Caitlin Clark's night against the Valkyries. pic.twitter.com/bK3ZEu5krX

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 23, 2026

"Yes, I played USA Basketball [in the offseason], but I didn't play 32 minutes, super physical. That's the difference for me right now, but I feel great. 

"I think a lot of times, for me, it's the next day, understanding how my body feels and understanding that a little bit better. 

"Obviously, your adrenaline is pumping, you don't always understand right after the game. Overall, I feel good. It's just about continuing to take care of my body."

The Fever, who are 4-2 for the campaign and sit second in the Eastern Conference, behind the 3-1 Atlanta Dream, face a swift rematch against the Valkyries on Thursday, in San Francisco.