The Indiana Fever have been making bold moves this offseason as they look to build on their 2024 playoff appearance—their first since 2016. The team has strengthened its roster around All-WNBA guard Caitlin Clark, bringing in seasoned players like DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Sophie Cunningham. However, one particular signing has stirred up some unexpected controversy. On Monday, the Fever officially announced the addition of former Chicago Sky forward Brianna Turner, a move that has drawn criticism from some fans.
Turner’s signing has sparked backlash due to comments she made during the 2024 season regarding the behavior of certain Fever and Caitlin Clark supporters. She had previously criticized some fans for their negative and inappropriate remarks, a stance that did not sit well with everyone. Though she later deleted her posts on X, the memory of her statements has lingered, leading some fans to question her place on the team. Many took to social media to express their frustration, with some calling the move “odd” and others demanding an apology before they could accept her as part of the team.
Despite the mixed reactions, Turner brings valuable defensive skills to Indiana’s roster. Since beginning her WNBA career with the Phoenix Mercury in 2019, she has established herself as a strong presence in the post, earning two WNBA All-Defensive First-Team selections. Last season with the Sky, her statistical contributions were modest—averaging just 1.2 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks—but her defensive impact goes beyond the numbers. While she may not play a major role in Indiana’s offense, her experience and defensive capabilities could be an asset to the team.
With the Fever’s roster filling up, it remains to be seen how much playing time Turner will receive in the upcoming season. Whether or not she wins over the fans, her addition signals the team’s commitment to bolstering its defense as they aim to make another postseason run. The controversy surrounding her signing highlights the passionate nature of WNBA fandom and the growing intensity of the league’s rivalries.
For now, Indiana will focus on preparing for the season ahead, with Caitlin Clark and the rest of the squad looking to build on last year’s success. As the games unfold, Turner will have the opportunity to prove herself on the court—both to her new teammates and to the fans still skeptical of her place in Indiana.
