The Indiana Fever have fully committed to constructing their future around All-WNBA point guard Caitlin Clark, making bold roster moves to solidify their competitive edge. Retaining All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell was a crucial step, but the organization didn’t stop there. To reinforce their frontcourt, the Fever added veteran forwards DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard, two accomplished players known for their defensive versatility and scoring ability. Recognizing the need for perimeter shooting to complement Clark’s elite playmaking, Indiana also secured sharpshooter Sophie Cunningham in a multi-team trade with the Phoenix Mercury, sending forward NaLyssa Smith and their 2025 first-round pick in exchange.
Cunningham, a career 36.2% three-point shooter, brings a valuable offensive weapon to the Fever’s arsenal. Though she experienced a slight statistical decline in 2024—averaging 8.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists—her ability to stretch the floor remains a key asset. On Wednesday, she made an appearance on Sports and Shenanigans with Jillian Carroll Letrinko, where she expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Fever and playing alongside Clark. The former Missouri Tigers standout embraced her role with a playful comparison, stating, “I told the people upstairs I will be the Sabrina Carpenter any day to her Taylor Swift.”
Beyond her admiration for Clark’s skills, Cunningham praised her teammate’s poise under pressure. “She’s just a great human, too,” Cunningham remarked. “She has a lot of pressure and a lot of eyes on her shoulders. And she handles it so gracefully.” Acknowledging Clark’s unselfish style, Cunningham added, “She passes the ball, which I enjoy.” Her excitement to contribute to a dynamic Fever offense highlights the synergy Indiana hopes to build around its rising superstar.
While the Fever have undergone a major roster transformation, changes extend beyond the court. Following their first-round playoff exit against the Connecticut Sun, the organization opted to part ways with head coach Christie Sides after two seasons. In a compelling twist, Indiana appointed the very coach responsible for their postseason elimination—2023 WNBA Coach of the Year Stephanie White—as Sides’ successor. White’s proven leadership and championship experience bring a new strategic vision to the Fever as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With a retooled roster and a new coaching regime, anticipation is at an all-time high in Indianapolis. The Fever’s aggressive offseason moves signal their intent to rise as legitimate contenders in 2025, and with Clark at the helm, Indiana’s future has never looked brighter.
