Fever Predicted To Draft 2-Time NCAA Champion To Assist Caitlin Clark’s Championship Push

The Indiana Fever might already have their superstar in Caitlin Clark, but their next move could be all about balance. With the 2026 WNBA Draft fast approaching, a new projection has quietly linked the franchise to Raven Johnson, a proven winner who thrives without the spotlight.

She’s not the flashiest name on the board, yet her skill set could unlock something bigger in Indiana. And if this prediction holds, Clark may finally get the perfect backcourt partner.

Why Raven Johnson Is a Perfect Fit for the Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark

Johnson isn’t your typical draft headline-grabber, but that’s exactly what makes her intriguing. The South Carolina guard, a two-time NCAA champion and the 2026 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, has steadily built a reputation as one of the smartest players in college basketball.

In ESPN’s latest WNBA mock draft, analyst Michael Voepel made it clear that Johnson’s stock is rising at the right time. “We saw those qualities throughout her career at South Carolina, but they were key in helping the Gamecocks reach the national championship game again and end UConn’s unbeaten season,” Voepel wrote.

Those qualities were central to South Carolina reaching another national championship game while also snapping UConn’s unbeaten run in the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four.

Voepel also highlighted her defensive edge, noting, “Johnson was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. She is very strong and can effectively guard a lot of different types of players.”

That versatility matters. The Fever already have offensive firepower with Clark, but adding a guard who can defend multiple positions changes the team’s identity overnight.

Originally a point guard, Johnson has evolved into a complete two-way player over the past few seasons. Under head coach Dawn Staley, she transformed from a pass-first floor general into a balanced contributor who can score when needed while still orchestrating the offense.

Her 2026 numbers show steady progress. She averaged 9.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.1 assists while shooting 48.6% from the field and 39.8% from 3-point range. The efficiency stands out as much as the production.

More importantly, Johnson doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. That alone makes her a seamless fit alongside Clark.

Johnson is projected to be the 10th pick, and the Fever enter the 2026 WNBA Draft with three picks at No. 10, No. 25, and No. 40. The event will take place April 13 at The Shed at Hudson Yards in New York City, giving Indiana a chance to add depth to a roster that is already taking shape.

Clark remains the centerpiece as she heads into her third season. She led the Fever back to the playoffs in her rookie year after an eight-year drought.

Despite an injury-shortened sophomore campaign, she returned to form on the international stage, earning MVP honors at the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament while leading Team USA to a perfect 5-0 run. Now she is ready for another title push.

Center Aliyah Boston continues to anchor the frontcourt for the Fever and is now eligible for a max extension. Similarly, veteran guard Kelsey Mitchell has received a core qualifying offer, while guard Lexie Hull is a restricted free agent. The team still has decisions to make, especially with several players from last season entering unrestricted free agency.

The Fever reached the playoff semifinals in 2025 despite dealing with injuries and missing Clark for most of the year. That run hinted at a deeper foundation already in place.

Adding Johnson would address a clear need behind Clark. She can step into possessions, organize the offense, and take on difficult defensive assignments without disrupting the team’s rhythm. Her experience in high-pressure games also brings a level of calm that will be vital in the playoffs.

Johnson may not arrive as a headline scorer. But her true value lies in doing a bit of everything, from defending to facilitating and leading the charge.