Indiana Fever is fighting for a playoff spot without Kleyk

• Kleyk has not played since July 15 due to a right ankle sprain
• Indiana Fever is trying to make the playoffs without Kleyk
• The coach is hoping for Kleyk's return by the end of the season

INDIANAPOLIS — The team Indiana Fever continues its fight for a playoff spot, but once again will take the court without Kaitlyn Kleyk, who is expected to be a key player against Seattle Storm. According to the latest update on the ankle injury, Kleyk and four of her teammates on the team will not be able to participate in the game scheduled for this Thursday.

Kleyk has not played and has not practiced since July 15 due to a right ankle sprain. She participated in the team’s shootaround before the match against Minnesota Lynx last week, but this did not help the team avoid defeats.

This season, Kleyk, who is a rookie and the last season's WNBA Rookie of the Year, has averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds in 13 games. However, she has missed 24 games, including the last 15 due to a recurring ankle injury this season.

Head coach Stephanie White noted that there is no specific timeline for Kleyk's return, but is hopeful that she can return before the end of the regular season. There is not much time left, and the team needs to win to make it to the playoffs.

At this moment, Indiana shares a position with Golden State Warriors for the last two spots in the playoffs, trailing Los Angeles Sparks by one point and ahead of Seattle by half a game.

Kleyk supports the team from the sidelines, actively engaging with players and coaches during games, which enhances her role as a leader, regardless of her absence on the court. Her return could be a key factor in the team's effort to make the playoffs.

Tags: Sport/Basketball