Integrating new players and dealing with the departure of key figures can often disrupt a team’s chemistry but that hasn’t been the case for the Indiana Fever. After DeWanna Bonner exited the team in early June, Aari McDonald stepped in and made an immediate positive impact. Although the loss of Bonner and a string of injuries including one to rising star Caitlin Clark might have derailed the team, McDonald’s arrival proved to be a timely boost.
Her presence has not only stabilized the lineup but also earned the admiration of both fans and teammates. Even with important players sidelined, McDonald’s performance has helped the team stay competitive. Teammate Aliyah Boston praised her, saying:
“Her impact is obvious. Just look at her plus-minus +26. Whether she’s scoring, defending, initiating offense, or making smart decisions, Aari has been the missing piece we needed.”
Despite playing only seven games since joining in June, McDonald has already made her mark. She signed a one-year deal worth $72,414 a figure that already feels justified by her contributions. She’s currently averaging 11.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, showing how quickly she’s gelled with the team.
With Clark sidelined due to a groin injury, head coach Stephanie White turned to McDonald during the Commissioner’s Cup final. The 26-year-old guard seized the opportunity, delivering 12 points and helping lead Indiana to its first title in 13 years.
In other team news, Aliyah Boston was named a starter for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game on June 30. She expressed her gratitude to the fans who voted her in:
“It’s incredibly special. Being an All-Star is never something you take for granted. I’m thankful to everyone who voted and with it being in Indy this year, it’s going to be really exciting.”
Prior to the announcement, Caitlin Clark had voiced her support for getting her teammates onto the All-Star roster, saying:
“Obviously, I want my teammates on my team. That’s the goal. Once the list comes out, I’ll try to make the most of it.”
With Clark and Boston already selected, there’s still hope that more Fever players could be named as reserves something only time will reveal.
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