The Indiana Fever’s ambitious offseason moves have taken center stage with the addition of two-time WNBA All-Star and 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, Natasha Howard. With a seasoned championship pedigree, Howard’s arrival signals a bold shift toward title contention for the rapidly evolving franchise. Paired with rising superstar Caitlin Clark, the veteran forward is set to provide the leadership and experience needed to transform the Fever into a powerhouse. “We have the talent, and we have the people, too,” Howard declared. “I’m happy to be part of this and show the younger players what it takes to win a championship.”
Howard’s credentials speak volumes, boasting three WNBA championships—one with the Minnesota Lynx and two with the Seattle Storm—during her 11-year career. Recognizing the need for a proven winner, Fever president Kelly Krauskopf and newly appointed general manager Amber Cox prioritized Howard as a key acquisition. Cox, previously with the Dallas Wings, knew firsthand what Howard could bring after watching her impact the team over the past two seasons. Now, she joins an Indiana roster brimming with talent, including fellow All-Stars Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston. With Mitchell recently signing a contract extension, Indiana has solidified a core that blends youth with veteran presence.
The Fever’s overhaul extends beyond roster upgrades. Stephanie White, a former Fever star and the WNBA’s 2023 Coach of the Year, has returned as head coach. White, who previously served as an assistant in Indiana, is expected to instill a championship culture while maximizing the team’s potential. Krauskopf underscored the significance of Howard’s leadership, noting her history of elevating teams wherever she plays. “The young group we’re bringing back asked us to protect our locker room and culture,” Krauskopf emphasized. “Everywhere Natasha has gone, she’s won. She’s a winner, and that’s exactly what we need.”
Caitlin Clark remains the franchise’s centerpiece, with sky-high expectations following her electrifying rookie campaign. A generational talent, Clark shattered records for rookie assists and three-pointers while becoming the first rookie in league history to notch a triple-double. Her presence alone has altered the Fever’s trajectory, making them an attractive destination for high-caliber talent like Howard. The veteran forward expressed her excitement about playing alongside Clark, stating, “She’s an amazing passer, and I can’t wait to catch her passes.” With a full offseason to build chemistry, Clark and Howard could form one of the most dynamic duos in the league.
Indiana’s aggressive offseason moves didn’t stop with Howard. The Fever bolstered their depth with sharpshooter Sophie Cunningham from Phoenix in a multi-team trade and later secured veteran DaWanna Bonner, a six-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion. These additions address a critical weakness from last season—the absence of championship experience. “There’s no substitute for experience,” White asserted. “We’ve been intentional in bringing in players who know how to win. Our goal isn’t just to compete; it’s to win multiple championships.” With a rejuvenated roster and a clear vision, the Indiana Fever are no longer just a team on the rise—they are a legitimate title contender.
