INDIANAPOLIS – June 2025 – Amid the Indiana Fever’s ongoing injury struggles, point guard Aari McDonald has seized the moment, while star guard Caitlin Clark and veteran Sophie Cunningham continue on their path to recovery.

 Aari McDonald: Seizing the Opportunity

Signed on June 1st via a hardship exemption after the Fever dropped below 10 healthy players, Aari McDonald returned to the WNBA following a nine-month hiatus due to injury and being released by the Sparks

In limited time off the bench, she has shown immense value—sparking energy, delivering solid defense, and facilitating the offense. Over two recent games, McDonald averaged around 7 points and 5 assists, helping Indiana bounce back to a .500 record Fans and analysts are already wary of losing her once the other guards return. As an emergency hardship player, she automatically exits the roster when the Fever return to 10 available players—unless the team chooses to create space for her via a waiver or salary cap maneuver

 Caitlin Clark: Playing the Long Game

Caitlin Clark has missed five straight games with a left quadriceps strain sustained around May 24. Though originally expected to return after two weeks, her recovery is now extended, as she has begun limited practice but is still not cleared for full gameplay 
Head coach Stephanie White has emphasized caution—both Clark and Cunningham need basketball conditioning, including full-court drills and lateral movement, not just shooting. The team is prioritizing their readiness over a quick return

 Sophie Cunningham: Progressing Toward Return

Sophie Cunningham, sidelined since the May 30 game with a right ankle injury, is also making strides. Like Clark, she has started practicing in limited capacity and is undergoing the same progressive conditioning protocol

 What Lies Ahead: Roster Strategy & Timing

Aari McDonald’s Timeframe: Unless the Fever free up a roster spot and navigate cap rules, her tenure will end when either Clark or Cunningham returns

Cautious Returns: Both Clark and Cunningham are expected to return only once fully game-ready. Clark may be eligible as soon as June 14 against New York, though no firm date has been set .

Team Outlook: Indiana sits at 4–4 and seventh in the standings. With McDonald’s spark and the two injured guards healing methodically, the Fever are aiming for long-term cohesion and playoff durability.

 Final Take

Aari McDonald’s “survival mode” performance has injected life into the roster—her defensive tenacity and poise are assets that fans want to keep. But standing regulations could force her exit once the Fever regain a full roster. Meanwhile, the return of Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham remains a high priority—though their ultimate readiness will be measured in full-court fitness rather than calendar days.