#indiana_fever

Aliyah Boston Remains Elite Forward-Center in WNBA Despite Struggles Aliyah Boston continues to stand out as one of the premier forward-centers in the WNBA, maintaining her status as a top-tier player for the Indiana Fever. Entering the 2026 season, Boston has averaged 16.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, showcasing her versatility and impact on both ends of the court. Despite her overall success, the three-time All-Star has faced challenges during individual games, highlighting the pressures of competing at the highest level. One notable instance occurred during the Fever’s second game of the season against the Los Angeles Sparks. In that matchup, Boston struggled offensively, scoring just four points—earned entirely from free throws—and shooting 0-of-3 from the field. The difficulties were compounded when she fouled out after playing only 22 minutes, a stark contrast to her usual dominance. Such moments have prompted Boston to reflect on her performance and the emotional toll of setbacks. Despite her high standards, Boston acknowledges that managing her reactions during off nights remains a work in progress. She has openly discussed her tendency to be self-critical, often delivering harsh internal messages when her performance falls short of expectations. “I’m definitely getting better, but I usually start there. Like I usually start at, ‘You suck,’” she admitted when asked about her approach to handling poor games. This candidness reveals her commitment to growth, even as she grapples with the frustration of inconsistency. Boston’s frustration often stems from specific moments during games when she feels her efforts are wasted. She described the frustration of missing what she considers “easy” shots, particularly in the paint.#2026_season #los_angeles_sparks #wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston

Caitlin Clark Injury Update: Fever Star's Back Issue and Record-Breaking Potential Caitlin Clark, the star player for the Indiana Fever, remains on the injury report as the team prepares for a crucial road matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. Despite a three-game winning streak for the Fever, Clark’s ongoing back issues have been a recurring concern throughout the season. The latest update indicates she is listed as probable for Thursday night’s game, though her participation remains uncertain. Clark’s injury history has been marked by setbacks. During the season opener, she required a back adjustment after the Fever’s victory over the Dallas Wings. This led to her absence for the May 20 game against the Portland Fire, which she was ruled out of just two hours before tipoff due to back soreness. The WNBA issued a formal warning about the handling of her scratch, noting that she was not listed on the injury report the day prior to the game. However, Clark returned five days later, contributing 22 points and nine assists in a 90-82 win over the Valkyries. Head coach Stephanie White addressed the league’s concerns directly, emphasizing the need for transparency. She confirmed that Clark will be listed as probable on the injury report moving forward to avoid similar policy issues. “Just to make sure there’s clarity and no issues with league policy, I think we will. You can expect to see it probable going forward,” White stated. Clark herself acknowledged that her injury would be reported as “soreness” in future games. If Clark plays tonight, the Valkyries face a significant challenge. Her performance in the previous matchup against Golden State showcased her impact: she scored 22 points on seven of 15 field goals, including four three-pointers, and added nine assists.#caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #stephanie_white #golden_state_valkyries

Fever's Grace VanSlooten Signing Aligns with Team's Strategic Needs The Indiana Fever made a strategic move on May 22 by signing forward Grace VanSlooten to a rest-of-season contract, following the waiver of veteran guard Shatori Walker-Kimbrough on May 21. The decision to replace Walker-Kimbrough with VanSlooten reflects the team’s focus on addressing frontcourt depth, a critical need highlighted by Aliyah Boston’s recent injury. VanSlooten, a 2026 WNBA Draft pick selected by the Seattle Storm with the No. 39 overall pick, had already demonstrated her potential during her brief stint with Seattle. She played four regular-season games for the Storm, averaging 4.3 points and 1.5 rebounds per game. Her performance caught the attention of the Fever, who had the opportunity to evaluate her during a May 17 matchup against their own team. In that game, VanSlooten logged 18 minutes, scoring 5 points while contributing 3 assists, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways—offense, defense, and ball movement—underscored her value as a versatile forward. The Fever’s front office saw VanSlooten as a perfect fit for their roster, which had struggled with frontcourt depth this season. Walker-Kimbrough, a guard, had been waived to create space for a player who could contribute in the frontcourt. VanSlooten’s signing not only balances the team’s positional needs but also provides flexibility in case of injuries or other unforeseen circumstances. Her familiarity with the Fever’s system, gained from her brief exposure during the May 17 game, further strengthens her case as a reliable addition. While VanSlooten’s immediate playing time may be limited as she adjusts to the Fever’s system, her presence offers the team a crucial insurance policy.#wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston #seattle_storm #grace_vanslooten

Indiana Fever's Lexie Hull Shares Injury Update Ahead of Sparks Game The Indiana Fever, fresh off a 107-104 loss to the Dallas Wings, prepare to face the Los Angeles Sparks in their second game of the season. The team’s starters are currently under minute restrictions, but head coach Stephanie White remains optimistic about their ability to rebound from the defeat. The focus has shifted to addressing key player injuries and ensuring the roster is fully prepared for the upcoming matchup. Guard Lexie Hull, a critical contributor for the Fever, provided an update on her hamstring injury ahead of the game. Hull missed all preseason games due to hamstring tightness but was cleared to play against Dallas, though she was limited to 15 minutes. She reiterated her readiness to return to full action, stating, “We still might be on a bit of a minute restriction, but I feel good to be out there. It’s great to be back with the girls and get to play live, for sure.” Despite the restrictions, Hull emphasized her physical recovery, noting her body has nearly returned to full health. Last season, she played 44 games, averaging 7.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Her performance earned her a two-year, $1.56 million extension during the offseason. Forward Monique Billings, another player on minute restrictions, shared her own injury update. Billings, who signed a two-year, $1.6 million deal with the Fever after a season with the Golden State Valkyries, started all preseason games but tweaked her ankle in the third game. She expressed excitement about the upcoming game against the Sparks, calling it a “homecoming” since she grew up in Los Angeles. “I’m so excited. We’re at UCLA, grew up here, so it’s really cool coming back.#los_angeles_sparks #indiana_fever #lexie_hull #stephanie_white #monique_billings

Caitlin Clark Returns to Court with Fever, Secures Preseason Victory NEW YORK -- In her first WNBA action since mid-July, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark contributed seven points, four assists, and three rebounds in under 17 minutes as the Fever defeated the New York Liberty 109-91 in their preseason opener on Saturday. The game marked Clark’s return to the court after a challenging 2025 season, during which she played only 13 games due to injuries. Her previous game back came last month, when she represented USA Basketball and earned MVP honors at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in San Juan. Despite the non-counting nature of the preseason matchup, Clark expressed immense excitement about rejoining the team. “Super, super excited” she said, emphasizing the significance of being able to “lace up her shoes” after a season marred by limited playing time. “I didn’t really get to do that very much,” she added, reflecting on her reduced role in 2025. Her enthusiasm was evident as she quickly found her rhythm, hitting her first two shots for five points in the opening 71 seconds. However, she struggled with subsequent attempts, missing eight of her next nine field goals. Clark’s impact extended beyond her scoring, as she showcased her leadership and court vision. Fever coach Stephanie White praised her composure, noting that “she didn’t force anything” and played with “great intention.” White highlighted the team’s adaptation to her presence, stating, “We play differently when she’s on the floor.” The coach acknowledged the challenges of translating her international success to the WNBA, where opponents employ different defensive strategies. “We’ve just got to find ways to free her up to get her some easy looks,” White said, underscoring the team’s focus on optimizing her role.#san_juan #caitlin_clark #indiana_fever #new_york_liberty

Gamecocks Have Three Players Selected in WNBA Draft NEW YORK — The WNBA draft on April 13 marked a significant milestone for the University of South Carolina as three Gamecocks were selected, continuing the program’s legacy of producing top-tier talent. Raven Johnson, Madina Okot, and Ta’Niya Latson each secured spots in the league, with Johnson and Okot drafted in the first round and Latson in the second. The selections underscored South Carolina’s growing influence in women’s basketball, with the trio joining a roster of former Gamecocks already making waves in the professional league. Raven Johnson, the 10th overall pick, will join Indiana’s roster, where she will reunite with former USC teammate Aliyah Boston and Ty Harris, who recently signed with the Fever. Johnson’s journey to the WNBA was defined by resilience and determination. After a challenging freshman season limited to just two games due to a knee injury, she emerged as one of the Gamecocks’ most beloved players. Her senior year saw her lead South Carolina to a third consecutive national championship game and a sixth straight Final Four, a streak that spanned her entire college career. Johnson’s performance in the 2024 national championship game against Caitlin Clark’s Iowa team was particularly memorable. Despite a prior rivalry—highlighted by Clark’s dismissive gesture during the 2023 Final Four—Johnson overcame the mental hurdle, securing a game-clinching layup in the second quarter to help USC advance. Indiana’s decision to draft Johnson was strategic, as she will complement Caitlin Clark, the league’s star point guard. The two players had a contentious history, with Clark’s dominance in their 2023 matchup lingering as a challenge for Johnson.#dawn_staley #indiana_fever #university_of_south_carolina #wnba_draft #raven_johnson

Indiana Fever Select Raven Johnson in First Round of 2026 WNBA Draft The Indiana Fever officially selected South Carolina guard Raven Johnson with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, marking a strategic move to bolster their roster with a versatile and experienced point guard. Johnson, a 5-foot-9 player, concluded her collegiate career at South Carolina with a 145-9 record, showcasing her leadership and skill across multiple levels of competition. Her selection highlights the Fever’s focus on acquiring a defensive anchor capable of making an immediate impact in the league. Johnson’s collegiate performance was standout, as she averaged 9.9 points, 5.1 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game during her senior season. Her ability to control the tempo of the game and elevate her team’s defense earned her the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award. Her shooting efficiency further underscores her value, with a 48.6% field goal percentage, 39.8% three-point accuracy, and an impressive 82% free-throw shooting rate. These numbers reflect her reliability in high-pressure situations, a trait that aligns with the Fever’s need for a player who can thrive in critical moments. Fever head coach Stephanie White praised Johnson’s readiness for the WNBA, emphasizing her experience in big-game scenarios. “She’s a winner,” White said during a press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “She’s won at every level, set the tone at every level. She’s immediately ready on the defensive end, which is something we need. She’s been a true point guard, and she’s experienced in big game moments.” White’s comments underscore the Fever’s belief that Johnson’s defensive versatility and playmaking ability will complement their existing roster.#south_carolina #dawn_staley #indiana_fever #raven_johnson #stephanie_white

Caitlin Clark's New Fever Teammate Was Once Waved Off by Her in College The Indiana Fever’s newest addition, Raven Johnson, who was selected with the 10th overall pick in the WNBA Draft, will now face Caitlin Clark in the professional arena after a contentious moment during their college careers. The two players, who were on opposing teams during the 2023 NCAA women’s Final Four, had a tense interaction that sparked widespread attention and controversy. During the championship game between Iowa’s Caitlin Clark and South Carolina’s Raven Johnson, Clark was tasked with guarding Johnson. However, in a pivotal moment, Clark waved Johnson off to double-team another South Carolina player. The clip of this incident quickly went viral, leading to significant backlash against Johnson. She later revealed that the online mockery she faced as a result of the moment contributed to her desire to distance herself from the sport temporarily. Johnson reflected on the incident during an interview on the “I AM NEXT” podcast in March, stating, “I was all over the internet. That’s one reason I hate the internet now, because of that situation. I got bashed, I got bullied, I got called all these things I wasn’t, aka like a monkey and things like that, and I just think I wanted to quit basketball at that time, and I just wanted to go in this little bubble of isolation and just be by myself.” Despite the negative experience, Johnson expressed excitement about joining the Fever and playing alongside Clark. When asked which new teammate she was most eager to play with, Johnson immediately responded, “Caitlin Clark. She’s a phenomenal player, with the things she does, it’s bar standard. She can shoot the ball, she can lead a team, and they win. She has a winning mentality, and I think that’s the biggest thing.#caitlin_clark #indiana_fever #wnba_draft #raven_johnson #i_am_next_podcast

Caitlin Clark Reacts to Connor McCaffery's Butler Exit Connor McCaffery’s decision to leave the Butler Bulldogs coaching staff has sparked immediate attention, particularly from his girlfriend, Caitlin Clark. The young assistant coach, who spent two seasons guiding the program, announced his departure through Instagram, sharing a reflective post that highlighted his gratitude for the opportunity and excitement for his next chapter. While McCaffery did not disclose his future plans, Clark’s response quickly became a viral moment, underscoring the deep connection between the couple. McCaffery joined Butler in 2024 as his first full-time coaching role after a brief stint with the Indiana Pacers. During his time with the Pacers, he served as the Basketball Development Coordinator, overseeing the scout team and assisting with scouting reports. This experience provided him with foundational coaching skills, which he later applied at Butler under head coach Thad Matta. Despite the Bulldogs’ modest 15–20 record in the 2024–25 season and a slightly improved 16–16 mark in 2025–26, McCaffery’s tenure offered valuable exposure to college basketball, even as the team remained a middle-of-the-pack squad in the Big East and missed the NCAA Tournament. Before entering coaching, McCaffery built a reputation as a reliable player during his six seasons at the University of Iowa, where he appeared in 166 games. His basketball legacy is deeply rooted in his family, with his father, Fran McCaffery, leading Iowa’s men’s program and his brothers also involved in the sport. This familial connection has shaped his career trajectory, blending personal passion with professional ambition. Clark and McCaffery’s relationship began in April 2023 while both were at Iowa.#butler_bulldogs #caitlin_clark #thad_matta #indiana_fever #connor_mccaffery

Sophie Cunningham’s future with the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever remains uncertain as the team navigates a pivotal offseason. With Clark anchoring the franchise’s long-term vision, the focus has shifted to assembling a supporting cast that complements her impact. Cunningham, who played a key role last season, now faces a critical decision as the Fever balances financial constraints, roster priorities, and the competitive WNBA landscape. The situation took shape during the WNBA expansion draft, where Cunningham was not selected by either the Portland Fire or Toronto Tempo. Both new franchises opted for higher-profile free agents, leaving Cunningham unprotected. While this outcome was anticipated—given the limited number of unrestricted free agents each expansion team could target—it raised questions about her value to Indiana. The Fever’s decision to leave her unprotected was likely a calculated risk, as Cunningham’s shooting ability and physicality made her an attractive option for other teams. Before a season-ending knee injury cut her campaign short, she averaged 8.6 points per game, providing spacing and defensive toughness. Her role as a complementary player to Clark was evident, as she excelled in creating space off the ball, maintaining perimeter defense, and adding grit to the backcourt. Cunningham’s profile has grown significantly since joining the Fever, and her skills align with the demand for reliable wing shooters in free agency. Teams seeking a proven performer with experience could easily come calling, especially as the WNBA’s salary cap tightens. However, Indiana’s financial situation complicates her potential return.#caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston #kelsey_mitchell

Sophie Cunningham's Free Agency Timeline: Key Dates for Indiana Fever Negotiations The Indiana Fever made significant roster adjustments ahead of Caitlin Clark’s second WNBA season, with one of the most impactful moves being the acquisition of Sophie Cunningham. In a four-team trade, the Fever surrendered NaLyssa Smith, a 2025 first-round pick, and a 2027 third-round pick to secure Cunningham’s talents. The decision proved fruitful, as Cunningham became a vital contributor for the team. During the 2025 season, she averaged 8.6 points on 46.9% shooting, along with 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.7 three-pointers per game. Beyond her statistical contributions, Cunningham emerged as a vocal leader and a physical presence on the court, often stepping into the role of the team’s enforcer. However, uncertainty now surrounds Cunningham’s future with the Fever. Her contract with the team has expired, making her an unrestricted free agent for the 2026 season. The situation took a concrete turn on Sunday night when ESPN reporter Alexa Philippou provided an update on WNBA free agency timelines. According to Philippou, the negotiation window between teams and players will open on Wednesday, with official signings allowed starting on Saturday. This means the Fever can begin formal talks with Cunningham as early as Wednesday, though no agreements will be finalized until she signs a new contract on Saturday at the earliest. Cunningham’s compensation last season was $100,000 with the Fever, a figure she will aim to surpass in 2026. The new Collective Bargaining Agreement, which took effect this season, has likely influenced her expectations for a more lucrative deal.#wnba #indiana_fever #kelsey_mitchell #sophie_cunningham #lexie_hull

Sophie Cunningham Takes on Broadcasting Role for 2026 WNBA Season Sophie Cunningham may not yet know where she’ll be playing for the 2026 WNBA season, but she has secured a new broadcasting role for the upcoming season. USA Network has added Cunningham to its coverage team, positioning her as a contributor for studio analysis during select games throughout the season. The network will broadcast 50 regular-season matchups, alongside the WNBA playoffs and Finals, as part of the league’s new media deal finalized in September 2025. A key highlight of the schedule will be weekly doubleheaders on Wednesdays, offering fans extended coverage of high-profile matchups. Cunningham’s transition to broadcasting aligns with her long-standing interest in the field. Earlier this year, she spoke with Sports Illustrated about her passion for sports commentary and her aspirations to build a career in broadcasting after retiring from professional basketball. While she is not expected to retire before the 2026 season, this role marks a strategic step toward her goal. Cunningham emphasized her enthusiasm for breaking down the game, stating, “I love sports. I love talking to people and learning their stories. I love the ‘why.’ When I get asked to commentate for basketball, I know the game, I have the IQ for it. I see plays, I see why they do different schemes. You get to break down these elite-level players and why they do what they do. I find it so fascinating, and I understand it. And, for some reason, people like to hear me break it down.” She also hinted at the possibility of a broadcasting career post-playing, saying, “Maybe there’s going to be a career there when I’m done playing basketball that that’s what I’ll get right into. I’m excited for that.#usa_network #wnba #indiana_fever #kelsey_mitchell #sophie_cunningham

Jalen Rose Praises Caitlin Clark's Impact on Basketball, Shares Insights on Health and Team Dynamics Jalen Rose, the former Indiana Pacers star and Michigan Wolverines legend, took to the stage in Indianapolis during the Final Four to moderate a panel discussion featuring Caitlin Clark, the star guard of the Indiana Fever, and Darryn Peterson, a rising NBA prospect. The event, hosted by the Lilly Foundation, focused on the importance of prioritizing athlete health, a theme that resonated deeply with Rose, who emphasized the sacrifices and discipline required to excel in sports. Rose, who played for the Pacers from 1996 to 2002, reflected on his own journey and the support he received from Indiana fans, a group he described as uniquely welcoming despite his roots in Michigan. During the panel, Rose highlighted Clark’s transformative influence on college basketball and the WNBA, calling her a “great ambassador” for the sport. He praised her professionalism, discipline, and ability to overcome challenges such as injuries and criticism. Rose noted that Clark’s impact extended beyond her on-court performance, as she redefined the standards of excellence in women’s basketball. “How you’ve changed the game not only collegiately but professionally, and how disciplined you are, how professional you are, how well you respect your teammates, how you’re all about winning— that’s to be admired,” he said. Clark, reflecting on her time with the Indiana Fever, shared how the team’s fan base has evolved since her arrival. She recalled the early days of the franchise, when the team struggled to attract large crowds, and contrasted that with the current enthusiasm for the Fever.#dusty_may #caitlin_clark #jalen_rose #indiana_fever #lilly_foundation

What the Indiana Fever Can Actually Spend in Free Agency The Indiana Fever face a complex free agency landscape as they prepare to navigate the 2026 WNBA season, with significant changes to the league’s salary cap and contract structures reshaping their financial flexibility. The new collective bargaining agreement has raised the salary cap to $7 million for the upcoming season, a shift that impacts how the team allocates its resources. With the majority of their 2025 roster set to become free agents, the Fever must balance retaining key players, addressing positional needs, and managing the cap constraints to build a competitive team for the future. Central to the Fever’s strategy is the retention of their franchise cornerstones, Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, who are not free agents. These two, along with rookie Makayla Timpson, form the core of the team’s current roster and are under contract through the 2026 season. Their presence provides stability, but the team must also prioritize re-signing star guard Kelsey Mitchell, whose return is considered the top priority. Mitchell, a supermax-eligible player, would command a guaranteed $1.4 million in salary under the new agreement, further tightening the team’s financial window. The Fever’s free agency budget is constrained by the requirement to maintain a 12-player roster, which limits the number of additional signings they can make. Assuming Mitchell is re-signed, the team would have approximately $400,000 per player allocated for the remaining spots, based on the average salary of just over $583,000 for 2026. Minimum salaries for players vary depending on years of service, ranging from $270,000 to $300,000.#caitlin_clark #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston #kelsey_mitchell #jocelyn_hull

Indiana Fever's 2026 Free Agency Outlook: Key Players and Contract Status The Indiana Fever’s 2026 season will feature only three players under guaranteed contracts, a stark contrast to previous years, due to the league’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The agreement, finalized in late 2025, has reshaped free agency rules, pushing most veteran players into free agent status for the 2026 season. The Fever’s roster for the upcoming season is now defined by a mix of core players, restricted free agents, and unrestricted free agents, with significant implications for the team’s future. The new CBA has created a system where players with fewer than six years of service can be “cored” by their teams, meaning their teams have the right to match any offer they receive. This change has led to a wave of free agency across the league, with the Fever’s roster being a prime example. The team’s current roster includes three players under contract for 2026: Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Makayla Timpson. The remaining players, including key contributors like Lexie Hull, Kelsey Mitchell, and Sophie Cunningham, will enter the 2026 free agency market with varying degrees of control over their futures. Caitlin Clark, the league’s reigning MVP finalist, is in her third year of her rookie contract with the Fever. Under the old CBA, the team would have needed to pick up her team option for 2027 ahead of the 2026 season. However, the new agreement allows Clark to pursue a max extension in 2027 due to her inclusion on the 2024 All-WNBA first team. Despite a shortened 2025 season due to injuries, Clark averaged 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists, solidifying her status as one of the league’s top players.#caitlin_clark #indiana_fever #collective_bargaining_agreement #aliyah_boston #makayla_timpson

Caitlin Clark's Salary Under New WNBA CBA Set to Surge Caitlin Clark, the star player for the Indiana Fever, is poised to see a dramatic increase in her earnings under the newly negotiated WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The league’s updated salary structure, which includes provisions like the "EPIC" (Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract) clause, is designed to reward high-performing players with faster pathways to max and supermax contracts. The new CBA introduces a minimum salary of $270,000, a significant jump from the previous supermax of $249,000. For Clark, this means her earnings will rise substantially. As a rookie in 2024, she earned $76,535, and her 2025 salary was $78,066. Under the old system, she would have been due $85,973 for her third season in 2026 and would have remained under contract until 2027. Now, she is projected to make $530,000 in 2026, a figure highlighted by ESPN’s Alexa Phillippou as an example of the EPIC provision. Clark’s salary is expected to climb further. If she maintains her All-WNBA team status, her 2027 salary could reach a projected maximum of $1.3 million. By 2028, she may qualify for a $1.7 million supermax deal. These figures reflect the league’s new approach to compensating players based on performance and early success, with the EPIC clause allowing top performers to bypass traditional salary progression timelines. The WNBA’s new salary cap, tied to league revenue, also plays a role in shaping future earnings. Current projections suggest the top salary could rise to $2.4 million by 2032, driven by revenue growth. This shift aligns with players’ demands during CBA negotiations, which emphasized fair compensation based on league profitability. Beyond base salaries, Clark is eligible for performance-based bonuses.#espn #caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #epic_clause