WNBA viewership grew faster than ever last season, recording a 170% increase compared to the 2023 season. That surge is largely thanks to Caitlin Clark, who was selected as the first overall pick by the Indiana Fever. Despite the spike in fan interest, Fever supporters had to watch their team miss the playoffs after a close 87–81 loss to the Connecticut Sun.
Now, determined to become a stronger contender, the Fever have made strategic moves to bolster their roster. General manager Amber Cox has already outlined her plans ahead of the 2025 season, which starts in May.
Sydney Colson To Help Indiana Fever Reach Greater Heights
In February, the Fever acquired Sydney Colson from the Las Vegas Aces on a one-year contract, aiming to bring veteran leadership and experience to a young squad. Excited about the addition, GM Cox explained Colson’s role in a recent interview.
“She’s going to be able to lead our team. And obviously, you know, great personality as well, brings a lot of fun and levity to the locker room. Again, that experience knows when we need which side, like the serious, the tough veteran leadership versus the, you know, fun, playful Syd. So I think she’s going to bring a lot of joy to all of our lives this season,” Cox said.
Since 2011, Colson has played for multiple WNBA teams, including the New York Liberty, San Antonio Stars, and the Aces. Throughout her career, she’s averaged 2.8 points and 1.6 assists per game. While the numbers aren’t flashy, Colson’s value as a veteran presence is clear.
During her 2019 stint with Las Vegas, Colson posted her career high in scoring, dropping 17 points against the Washington Mystics.
Adding Colson is a key step in helping the Fever reach their potential. Clark had a stellar rookie season, averaging 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game, proving she’s the franchise cornerstone. However, the lack of veteran mentors to guide her during key moments was a factor in Indiana’s struggles, especially against top-tier opponents.
Now with Colson in the mix, Clark can focus more on what she does best — scoring and facilitating — while the former helps manage game tempo and decision-making.
Under Clark’s leadership, the 2025 Fever roster looks stronger than ever. The team also includes key players like Aliyah Boston, Natasha Howard, and Kelsey Mitchell. Fever fans now have real reasons to be excited about what’s to come. And before the season tips off, the new point guard had a message for Indiana’s biggest star.
Colson’s Unique Praise for Caitlin Clark
Colson is no stranger to success at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The veteran guard won an NCAA title there with Texas A&M in 2011, and now, she’s back in Indianapolis with hopes of chasing another championship — this time in the WNBA.
But before the season begins, Colson shared her thoughts on Clark. On March 25, she described Clark’s impact in a way only she could.
“It was nuts. There’s no other way to say it. It was nuts. I think you’re seeing a team that’s now affecting the economy in the city. You got people coming from out of town, out of state, out of the country, maybe even, to see games. And so that’s special,” Colson said in the interview.
Colson’s words carry weight. Clark’s presence already set records — the Fever’s game on Sept. 23, 2024, became the most-watched WNBA game ever on ESPN, pulling in 2.54 million viewers.
On March 24, Colson got her first look at her new No. 51 jersey, signaling she’s ready to contribute.