Indiana Fever fans are in shock after learning that Temi Fagbenle, one of the team’s standout players, was not protected during the WNBA Expansion Draft and was subsequently selected by the Golden State Valkyries. The move, which saw 11 players chosen from the league’s existing teams, has left fans dismayed, particularly since Fagbenle had been a key figure on the Fever roster.
The Golden State Valkyries made their selections from the 12 current WNBA teams, with one notable exception: the Seattle Storm, from whom they chose no players. Among the 11 players selected were talents like Iliana Rupert (Atlanta Dream), Veronica Burton (Connecticut Sun), and Temi Fagbenle (Indiana Fever). However, Fagbenle’s inclusion in the list of chosen players caught many off guard, especially given her importance to the Fever.
Fagbenle’s departure marks a significant change for the Indiana Fever, a team that had relied on her experience and leadership. In the lead-up to the Expansion Draft, many fans had expected the Fever to protect Fagbenle, as she was seen as a crucial part of their roster. Her selection by the Valkyries has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
The reaction from Fever fans has been swift and emotional, with many expressing disbelief and sadness over Fagbenle’s departure. On social media, fans voiced their frustration, with one user writing, “INDY DIDN’T PROTECT TEMI ???” while another expressed their disappointment with, “Can’t believe she wasn’t protected.” Many were especially vocal about the bond between Fagbenle and fellow Fever player Caitlin Clark, with one fan noting how Fagbenle had been a strong supporter of Clark.
The sentiment was clear: Fagbenle had become an integral part of the Fever, both on and off the court, and her absence will be felt by fans and players alike. The strong connection between Fagbenle and Clark, who has emerged as the team’s star, added another layer of sadness for those who had hoped to see them continue to play together in Indiana.
What’s Next for Fagbenle and the Fever?
As Fagbenle moves to the Golden State Valkyries, fans are left to wonder how this shift will affect both teams. Fagbenle’s versatile skill set and leadership qualities made her a valuable asset for the Fever, and now the Valkyries will benefit from her experience. The real question, however, is how the Fever will respond in her absence and whether they will be able to fill the void left by her departure.
As for Fagbenle, her new journey with the Valkyries marks an exciting chapter in her career. While it’s clear that she’ll be missed in Indiana, this fresh start could provide new opportunities for her growth and development as a player. How she adapts to her new team and role will certainly be one of the storylines to watch in the upcoming season.
The End of an Era in Indiana
Fagbenle’s departure from the Fever signifies the end of a chapter for the team. For fans who had grown attached to the core group of players, this change may feel like a difficult adjustment. However, the WNBA continues to evolve, and this expansion draft is a testament to the league’s growth and the opportunity for new talent to shine.
As the Golden State Valkyries build their team, Fagbenle’s selection will surely be remembered as one of the key moments of this expansion draft. While Indiana Fever fans are mourning her departure, it’s also a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of professional sports, where every decision can shift the trajectory of a player’s career. Fagbenle’s future looks bright, and her time with the Valkyries may open the door for even greater success.
