Indianapolis, IN – While the Indiana Fever enter the 2025 season with renewed hope and one of the most exciting young cores in the WNBA, there’s still one move — or rather, one mistake — that continues to cast a shadow over the franchise’s progress.

The decision? Passing on key veteran leadership during the rebuild years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, when the front office prioritized youth development but failed to balance the roster with experienced, winning-caliber veterans. And the effects of that choice are still being felt today.

 What Went Wrong?

During the Fever’s multi-year rebuild, Indiana leaned heavily into acquiring young, high-potential players through the draft — Aliyah Boston, NaLyssa Smith, Grace Berger, and now Caitlin Clark — all major talents. But during that crucial transition period, the team lacked veteran anchors to guide the locker room, set the tone, and instill a winning culture.

Instead, multiple short-term contracts and inconsistent leadership off the bench led to a lack of chemistry and accountability. The result? Repeated fourth-quarter collapses, defensive lapses, and missed opportunities in close games that could’ve swung the team’s record — and playoff hopes.

 Missed Opportunities

Around the league, other rebuilding teams — like the Atlanta Dream and Chicago Sky — strategically signed veteran presences to guide their young stars. The Fever had chances to bring in proven winners: Natasha Cloud, Alysha Clark, or even a reunion with veteran point guard Briann January could have stabilized the team during its growing pains.

Instead, the Fever often had one of the youngest rosters in the WNBA with no true veteran voice in the room. That mistake arguably stunted player development and delayed the team’s return to playoff contention.

 Acknowledging the Past

To their credit, the Fever’s front office has learned from this. The recent addition of Erica Wheeler — a respected veteran who previously played with the Fever — is a step in the right direction. Her leadership alongside the rising core, especially Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, may finally bring the balance Indiana has long needed.

Coach Christie Sides spoke on this during training camp:
“It takes more than talent to win. It takes leadership, accountability, and experience. That’s what we’re building now — but yes, it’s something we should’ve had earlier.”

 Moving Forward

The Fever now have the pieces in place to compete, but that early oversight still lingers in the background. It serves as a reminder: talent alone isn’t enough. In the WNBA — where every possession counts — leadership, culture, and experience can make all the difference.

This one mistake may have cost Indiana a year or two in their rebuild. Now, the question is: Can they make up for lost time — and finally deliver on their championship potential?