The arrival of new players and the departure of former teammates doesn’t always translate into a smooth transition, but fortunately for the Indiana Fever, that hasn’t been the case. When DeWanna Bonner left the team in early June and Aari McDonald came in, the outcome turned out to be positive from every angle.
While Bonner’s exit and a string of injuries-including one to the league’s rising star, Caitlin Clark could have spelled trouble, McDonald’s arrival came at just the right time.
Her performances have earned her the respect of her teammates, and her presence on the floor has helped keep the team afloat. Even if injured players are missed, McDonald’s impact has made their absence easier to manage.
Following McDonald’s arrival and immediate contribution, another key figure in the team, Aliyah Boston, spoke about her new teammate.
I just think her impact, you see it. Even just looking at the plus-minus, +26. Aari’s impact, whether it’s scoring, whether it’s defending, it’s getting us into offense, it’s making the right reads, making the right pass. I think she’s just been the perfect missing piece for us.
Proving her value on the court
Since joining the team in early June, McDonald has played only seven games, but her value has already been acknowledged by teammates and fans alike. It’s worth noting that McDonald signed a one-year contract worth $72,414, a figure her current performance has already justified.
So far, Aari McDonald is averaging 11.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game with the Indiana Fever. These numbers reflect how seamlessly she has adapted both to the team and to her new teammates.
Earning the trust of her coach
With Caitlin Clark sidelined due to a groin injury, Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White placed her trust in McDonald to take on a key role in the recent Commissioner’s Cup final-and she didn’t disappoint.
The 26-year-old guard took full advantage of the opportunity and delivered an outstanding performance against the Minnesota Lynx. She scored 12 points and helped lead the team to victory, securing the Fever’s first title in 13 years.
Aliyah Boston’s reaction to her All-Star nomination
On June 30, Aliyah Boston was notified that she had been selected as a starter for the WNBA All-Star Game. Grateful and determined, she spoke about what it means to her to play in front of the fans who helped vote her in.
Yeah, it’s super special,”… “You don’t take any moment being an All-Star for granted. I’m super thankful for everyone that voted. I think it’s just such a great opportunity… especially with it being in Indy this year, I think it’s going to be pretty awesome.
Before the All-Star starters were announced, Caitlin Clark had expressed hope that several of her Fever teammates would make the roster.
Obviously, I’m gonna try to get my teammates in my team. Why wouldn’t I? That’s obviously the goal,” Clark said in an interview. “Once they come it with whoever is made it and whoever hasn’t, I’ll guess I get to pick and choose.
Beyond Clark and Boston’s nominations, there is still hope that more Fever players will be selected as reserves. Time will tell if that comes to pass.
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