Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark is preparing for her third WNBA season following a challenging 2025 campaign disrupted by multiple injuries. The 2024 Rookie of the Year appeared in just 13 games last season before being shut down due to a series of physical setbacks.
Despite the shortened season, anticipation remains high for Clark's return as she continues to be one of the league's most prominent attractions heading into the 2026 season.
Off the court, Clark recently found herself at the center of attention due to speculation about her relationship with Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy. The media personality had publicly supported Clark throughout her record-breaking college career at Iowa, where she became the NCAA's all-time leading scorer.
Portnoy initially claimed that Clark had blocked his number, raising questions about their relationship status following his critical comments about Iowa basketball program figures. The situation allegedly stemmed from an uncomfortable exchange involving the McCaffery family, including Clark's boyfriend Connor McCaffery.
However, Portnoy clarified the situation during his Monday episode of "Stock Up, Stock Down" by revealing his recent text exchange with the 24-year-old star.
"Breaking News: Caitlin Clark has responded," Portnoy said as he shared their conversation. "I said 'testing, am I blocked?' She said 'Yes crying emoji laughing' and then 'no laugh out loud, I think you sent that text when I was flying.'"
The exchange confirmed that there was no actual fallout between the two parties and that both remain on good terms. Clark's response indicated the communication issue was simply a matter of timing rather than any intentional blocking.
Clark's ability to maintain positive relationships with high-profile supporters like Portnoy remains important as she continues to build her professional career. The Fever star has become one of the WNBA's most marketable players since entering the league.
As Clark continues her offseason preparation, Fever fans will be monitoring her health status closely. The team hopes their star guard can return to full fitness after last season's injury-plagued campaign that limited her impact on the court.
The resolution of this off-court situation allows Clark to focus entirely on her basketball comeback as she works toward being fully ready for the upcoming WNBA season.
