What had started off as a season where the Indiana Fever appeared to be amongst the favorites has turned turbulent due to injury woes. Being without their star Caitlin Clark for the last five games, the Fever dropped three of those games, raising questions around Indiana’s dependence on the sophomore guard.
A bright spot in Clark’s absence, however, appeared in the form of hardship signing Aari McDonald, who grabbed the opportunity and proved just why she belongs in this league. But as Clark’s return seems imminent now, McDonald’s run with the Fever will be coming to an end.
Stephanie White Praises Aari McDonald’s Cameo Upon Departure
McDonald arrived in Indiana at the start of June, at a time when both Clark and Sophie Cunningham were out with injuries. In the three games that she played with the Fever, the California native averaged 11 points per game, three assists per game, and two steals per game, helping the Fever secure victories over the Washington Mystics and Chicago Sky.
But as McDonald was signed on a hardship deal, Caitlin Clark’s return to action meant the Fever will once again have ten active members on the roster, necessitating McDonald’s departure. While her stint with the Fever was short-lived, it is important to note that her contributions were immense in stabilizing the ship for Stephanie White during the crisis. And the coach has nothing but praise for the young guard.
Steph White on having to release Aari McDonald and how she’s impressed with the Fever:
“She’s gonna find a spot, I don’t think that’s a debate right now. She’s been the ultimate pro.” pic.twitter.com/wTaizCG7nS
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) June 13, 2025
“She’s been the ultimate pro. She came in ready to go. She had watched such a large amount of film just on her flight in here that you could tell already her high IQ.” White said. While McDonald will go back to being a free agent, her performances over the past two weeks have certainly put teams around the league on notice, with Coach White claiming McDonald will find a spot in no time.
“She’s gonna find a spot, I don’t think that’s a debate right now.” White boldly claimed. With teams such as the Dallas Wings and Chicago Sky suffering early on in the season, a live wire like McDonald could provide them just the spark they require to kickstart their season.
For the Fever, though, the return of Clark means they can now get their championship campaign back on track. Her first matchup upon her return will not be an easy task to tackle, as they will once again host New York Liberty, a game that went roughly for Clark when they met last month.
she’s back 🔥
Caitlin Clark is ready to play tomorrow against New York. pic.twitter.com/tOfuyfF99M
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) June 13, 2025
While Clark would be excited to jump back into play, Coach White has clarified they will not be rushing her back, indicating their sights are set on the long-term goal: The WNBA championship.