The 2024 WNBA season brought significant changes, including the league’s expansion with the addition of the Golden State Valkyries. As part of their preparations for their inaugural season in 2025, the Valkyries participated in an expansion draft where they had the opportunity to select players from existing teams. Each franchise could protect six players, leaving the remainder of their roster available for selection. For the Indiana Fever, this meant that several players, including center Temi Fagbenle, were at risk of being chosen. While the exact list of protected players from the Fever has not yet been disclosed, it is clear that Fagbenle was left unprotected. The Valkyries selected her in the draft, marking the end of her brief stint with Indiana.
Fagbenle’s departure was met with a wave of disappointment from WNBA fans, many of whom expressed their sadness on social media. Fans shared emotional messages, unable to hide their disbelief that the skilled center was leaving the Fever. “Temi, we will miss you so much,” said one fan, accompanied by a broken heart emoji. Others echoed similar sentiments, with one person writing, “This hurts, man!! I really liked her for this team.” The outpouring of reactions highlights the deep connection fans had with Fagbenle during her time with the Fever.
Fagbenle’s tenure with the Fever was a short but eventful one. After spending three seasons with the Minnesota Lynx to kick off her WNBA career, she joined Indiana for the 2024 season. During that year, Fagbenle played in 22 games, averaging 6.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game. Unfortunately, her season was marred by injuries. She struggled with a shoulder issue, a right thumb injury, and a foot problem that kept her sidelined for part of the season. Despite these challenges, she contributed to the Fever’s 20-20 record, which was a solid showing for the team.
The timing of Fagbenle’s departure raises questions about how the Fever will adjust their roster moving forward. With her departure to the Valkyries, Indiana now faces the challenge of finding a new backup center. The team will likely look to the free agency market to fill this gap and strengthen their lineup for the 2025 season.
As for Fagbenle, her move to the Golden State Valkyries marks an exciting new chapter in her career. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how she performs with her new team in the upcoming season. While her time with the Fever was brief, it’s clear that she left a lasting impact on the franchise and its supporters. Her journey through the WNBA continues, and both her supporters and the Fever organization will undoubtedly be eager to see what the future holds for this talented player.
