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Indiana Fever issue statement after Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese–Caitlin Clark scheduling call

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The rivalry between Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark remains one of the most talked-about storylines in the WNBA. However, fans didn’t get many chances to see the two stars go head-to-head last season, largely due to Clark’s injury troubles.

Clark was limited to just 13 appearances during the 2025 campaign, which significantly reduced the number of matchups against Reese and the Sky. Out of five scheduled meetings between Chicago and Indiana, Clark featured in only one — the season opener on May 17, where she inspired the Fever to a dominant 93–58 victory. Despite her absence in the remaining four games, Indiana still completed a 5–0 season sweep over Chicago.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) shake hands before the game Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Sky and Fever set for fewer meetings in 2026

The WNBA’s release of the 2026 regular-season schedule quickly drew attention, particularly around high-profile matchups involving Reese and Clark. One notable change stood out: the two teams will meet just three times in 2026 — two fewer games than last season.

Chicago will host two of those three contests, but only one will take place at the United Center, which can accommodate roughly 20,000 fans. The Sky typically play their home games at Wintrust Arena, a venue with about half that capacity.

Last season, both Sky-Fever games in Chicago were moved to the United Center to accommodate demand. This year, however, only the August 8 matchup will be staged there. The second home meeting, scheduled for August 23, will remain at Wintrust Arena — a decision that has raised questions given the continued popularity of Clark and the Fever.

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) reacts to a flagrant foul from Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).

Fever respond to venue decision

With uncertainty surrounding Chicago’s choice not to upgrade both home games, the Indiana Fever were asked to comment on the situation. A team spokesperson made it clear that venue decisions fall outside their control.

“We can’t speak to what other teams may do in terms of venue changes,” a Fever representative told Front Office Sports.

Chicago are not alone in their approach. Several other WNBA teams have also opted not to move their home games against Indiana to larger venues, even though the Fever were among the league’s biggest attendance drivers last season, both at home and on the road.

While the Fever acknowledge the commercial appeal Clark brings to opposing arenas, the organization has emphasized that such decisions ultimately rest with the host teams. Regardless of the setting, Indiana will approach every road game with the same competitive mindset.

Whether played in a packed United Center or the more intimate confines of Wintrust Arena, the Reese-Clark rivalry is set to remain a major talking point when the two stars share the floor again in 2026.

 

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