After an up-and-down couple of seasons marked by injuries and limited minutes, Damiris Dantas is making headlines again — not for her stats, but for her unbelievable physical transformation heading into the new WNBA season. The Indiana Fever forward has shown up to training camp in what many are calling the best shape of her entire career, and her teammates, coaches, and fans are all taking notice.

The 6’3″ Brazilian forward looks leaner, quicker, and more explosive in early preseason workouts, sparking buzz that she could play a major role in Indiana’s campaign this year.

 A New Look, A New Level

Photos and videos released from training camp show Dantas with increased muscle tone, faster footwork, and a clear boost in agility. According to Fever insiders, she committed to a strict offseason program that focused on:

Strength and conditioning

Flexibility and core stability

Rehabilitating nagging injuries

Nutrition and endurance work

“She’s moving with confidence, with purpose,” said head coach Christie Sides. “This is the Damiris we’ve been waiting for — healthy, focused, and ready to lead.”

 Redemption Arc: From Uncertainty to Opportunity

Dantas, now entering her 10th WNBA season, had dealt with multiple injury setbacks and minutes restrictions in recent years. Many wondered whether her best years were behind her. But instead of letting that doubt define her, she used it as motivation.

“People thought I was done. But I never stopped believing. I went back to the basics. I worked. I sacrificed. And now I’m here — better than I’ve ever been,” Dantas said in a post-practice interview.

The Fever re-signed her with confidence this offseason, not just for her experience, but because of the veteran presence and versatility she brings to a young and evolving roster.

 Leadership + Versatility = A Dangerous Combo

With the Fever drafting rising stars like Bree Hall, Yvonne Ejim, and of course, welcoming in Caitlin Clark, a lot of attention has gone to the youth movement. But Dantas is a crucial piece of the puzzle. Her basketball IQ, ability to stretch the floor, and guard multiple positions give the Fever added depth and flexibility.

“Damiris is like a glue player for us,” said Aliyah Boston. “She knows how to keep the team connected — on the court and in the locker room.”

If Dantas can sustain her new level of fitness throughout the season, she may end up being one of the most underrated contributors in the WNBA this year.

What the Numbers Say

Even in a limited role last season, Dantas showed flashes:

5.2 PPG

4.7 RPG

36% 3PT shooting

17.8 minutes per game

Now that she’s in peak shape, coaches are planning to increase her minutes and explore using her in small-ball lineups, switch-heavy defenses, and high-low post actions.

 Fans Are Noticing Too

It didn’t take long for Fever fans to start buzzing about Dantas’ transformation. Tweets, Instagram comments, and Reddit threads have all been filled with support:

“Dantas looks like a whole different player this season. Let’s GOOOO!”
“The W is not ready for the bounce-back she’s about to have.”
“Underrated no more. This is her year.”

 Final Word: Don’t Sleep on Damiris

While the headlines may be dominated by rookies and rising stars, Damiris Dantas is quietly preparing for a career resurgence. With a fresh mindset, a re-energized body, and a fire to prove the doubters wrong, she’s ready to make a real impact in Indiana.

She’s not just in great shape. She’s in game-changing shape — and that could make all the difference in the Fever’s playoff hopes this season.

“I’ve been through the struggle. Now it’s time to shine.” – Damiris Dantas