Indiana Fever’s Offseason Moves: A Game-Changer for 2025?
Hey basketball fans, let’s dive into the exciting developments surrounding the Indiana Fever. Last season, the Fever made a triumphant return to the WNBA playoffs for the first time since 2016. Now, with their 2025 offseason moves, they are not just looking to make another playoff appearance but are setting their sights on becoming a championship contender. Could this be the year they make a deep postseason run? Let’s break it down.
The Fever’s All-Star core is already impressive, featuring back-to-back WNBA Rookie of the Year winners Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark, along with veteran Kelsey Mitchell. But the Fever didn’t stop there. They have added players with championship experience and a knack for defense and 3-point shooting, addressing some of their key needs.
In the past week, the Fever made significant moves in free agency and trades, bringing in guard/forward DeWanna Bonner, forward Sophie Cunningham, and forward Natasha Howard. Bonner and Howard joined as free agents, while Cunningham was acquired through a four-way trade from the Phoenix Mercury, which also saw forward NaLyssa Smith move from Indiana to the Dallas Wings.
These moves come on the heels of another big offseason announcement: Kelsey Mitchell’s return. The shooting guard, who was an unrestricted free agent, received a core designation from the team and signed a one-year deal to return for her eighth season with Indiana. (Players are opting for one-year deals as the union and the WNBA negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement for 2026 and beyond.)
Let’s take a closer look at the new additions:
- DeWanna Bonner: At 37, Bonner is entering her 16th season, having previously played with Phoenix and the Connecticut Sun. She has two championships with the Mercury and played in the 2022 WNBA Finals with the Sun. Bonner has averaged 14.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over her career. Known for her tenacity and versatility, she has guarded every type of player in the WNBA.
- Natasha Howard: Returning to the Fever, Howard was originally drafted by Indiana in 2014 and played her first two seasons there. She has won a WNBA title with the Minnesota Lynx and two with the Seattle Storm. Standing at 6-2, Howard plays bigger and is expected to be a strong defensive partner for Boston. She was named WNBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.
- Sophie Cunningham: Known as “Spicy Sophie,” Cunningham is a player fans either love or hate, and she thrives on that reputation. She brings grit and edge to the team, along with solid 3-point shooting skills, having made 254 treys in her six seasons with Phoenix.
All three players are known for their ability to run the floor, which is crucial with Caitlin Clark at point guard. Clark, who led the WNBA in assists last season with 8.4 per game, loves to play at a fast pace and rewards teammates who can keep up.
With several big names moving around in trades and free agency this offseason, the Fever are not alone in their quest for a new look and increased competitiveness. Last season, the Fever finished 20-20 and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. They still have work to do, but the recent additions have filled critical gaps and should enhance their performance.
Moreover, the Fever’s moves are likely to add even more excitement to a team that led the WNBA in attendance both at home and on the road last season. Fans are eager to see how these changes will translate on the court.
Originally Written by: Michael Voepel
