Fever star Caitlin Clark (back) out vs. Sparks

Indiana Fever star guard Caitlin Clark has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the visiting Los Angeles Sparks, head coach Stephanie White announced Friday morning.

Clark exited Wednesday's game against the Phoenix Mercury with 5:15 left in the third quarter due to back issues.

"She's OK. She's going to be out on Saturday, but she's doing all right," White said on Friday before referencing a break in the team's schedule. After Saturday's contest, the Fever (10-8) are idle until they visit the Las Vegas Aces on July 5.

"Obviously it's a good time (for her to rest), because we have all week next week to take this opportunity to get her treatment, get her healthy and get her back on the floor and see what happens," White said. "... Long-term health and wellness is the most important thing."

In addition to the back issues, Clark endured a physical performance by the Mercury -- namely Alyssa Thomas. The Phoenix guard was given a flagrant foul 2 by the WNBA office and suspended one game for "recklessly making contact with her fist to the throat area" of Clark.

The incident occurred with 6:52 left in the second quarter of the Mercury's 111-109 triumph in Indianapolis. No foul was called.

Clark, 24, is averaging a career-high 21.2 points, 8.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds through 17 games this season. She's a two-time All-Star.

--Field Level Media