In a rivalry matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky, the night was dominated by injuries as two of the league’s veteran guards faced season-ending setbacks just as the top stars were out of action.
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were unavailable for the game due to injuries, while the Fever’s Sydney Colson and the Sky’s Courtney Vandersloot also sat out. Vandersloot’s absence stems from an ACL tear she suffered, requiring surgery back in June, whereas Colson sustained an ACL tear during the Fever’s blowout loss to the Phoenix Mercury on Thursday.
Vandersloot took to social media to send a message to Colson, noting that they are the only two remaining players from the 2011 WNBA Draft and that they’re both done for the year because of similar injuries. “Come back about to be crazy! @sydjcolson,” Vandersloot wrote.
Colson responded with a light-hearted but determined reply: “Wow this is crazy but right there witcha sloot!”
At 36 years old, both players face a challenging road back from what could be career-threatening injuries. Still, their exchange highlighted the camaraderie and mutual support that can emerge among veterans during trying times, as each navigates rehabilitative hurdles and the prospect of returning to the court in the future.
This setback adds another layer of uncertainty to both franchises, which are already dealing with a tougher-than-usual season and the absence of other star players. Beyond the immediate games, the two 2011 Draft alums’ journeys underscore the lasting impact of injuries on long-tenured competitors and the resilience required to come back.
Summary notes:
– The Fever-Sky game featured notable absences due to injuries, including Clark and Reese, with Colson and Vandersloot sidelined for season-ending injuries.
– Vandersloot and Colson, both 36, are renewing encouragement between two of the last remaining 2011 Draft alumni.
– The situation emphasizes veteran resilience and the support networks athletes lean on during rehabilitation.
Additional context:
– ACL injuries typically require extensive rehab, and age can influence recovery timelines. Fans will be watching closely for any positive indicators of each player’s return and how their teams adapt depth-wise in the meantime.
– This story also shines a light on how rival teams can still rally around their players’ health and motivate one another during difficult seasons.