Indiana Fever star guard Caitlin Clark has opted out of participating in the WNBA’s All-Star festivities while she recovers from a right groin injury.

Clark had been named a starter and team captain for Saturday’s All-Star Game in Indianapolis after receiving the most fan votes. She also planned to participate in the 3-point contest before issuing her statement on Thursday.

“I am incredibly sad and disappointed to say I can’t participate in the 3-Point Contest or the All-Star Game. I have to rest my body,” Clark said in a statement. “I will still be at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for all the action and I’m looking forward to helping Sandy (Brondello) coach our team to a win.”

Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally, who was chosen as a starter for Team Clark, pulled out Wednesday due to a ankle injury.

WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert selected Washington Mystics guard Brittney Sykes and Atlanta Dream forward Brionna Jones as replacements for Clark and Sabally.

Sykes, 31, is averaging 17.1 points per game this season. This will be her first All-Star Game.

Jones, 29, is now a four-time All-Star. She is averaging 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds.

Clark, 23, sustained the injury in the final minute of Indiana’s 85-77 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Tuesday in Boston. She has missed 10 regular season games this season, 11 if the Commissioner’s Cup final is included. Previously, she had never missed a game in her college of pro career.

In 13 games, Clark is averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game in her second professional season.

Sabally, 27, is averaging a career-best 19.1 points per game. She last played on July 3.

“Unfortunately, my body still needs more time to recover and I am unable to suit up and play in this weekend’s game,” Sabally said. “I’m disappointed.”

–Field Level Media