The 2025 WNBA Draft had its fair share of expected outcomes and jaw-dropping moments. While top-tier talents like Paige Bueckers, Hailey Van Lith, Sonia Citron, and Kiki Iriafen landed exactly where fans and analysts projected, one team stirred the pot in a different way-the Indiana Fever.
Coming off a promising season powered by Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, the Fever entered the draft with three later-round picks and high hopes from fans to bolster the roster with dynamic scoring threats. But Indiana’s front office had other ideas.
A Defense-first draft strategy
With the 19th overall pick, the Fever selected Makayla Timpson, a versatile forward from Florida State known for her defensive presence and rebounding tenacity. Just one pick later, they added Bree Hall from South Carolina-another tough, defense-oriented guard. To round out their draft night, Indiana chose Gonzaga’s Yvonne Ejim at No. 33, adding more grit and energy to the frontcourt.
According to General Manager Amber Cox, the Fever came into the night with a clear game plan: strengthen their defense and add versatility.
“The name of the game tonight was to really shore up our defense, continue to bring in more versatility, and continue to add more weapons to this potent offense,” she said after the draft.
And on paper, that plan aligns with their current roster makeup. With Clark and Mitchell anchoring one of the most efficient backcourts in the league, defensive-minded additions could help balance the team’s overall performance.
Still, fans were hoping for a little more flash.
Throughout the draft, one name repeatedly echoed among Fever faithful: Lucy Olsen. The Villanova standout had been gaining steam as a fan-favorite pick, even drawing early comparisons to Clark herself. When she remained available late in the second round, many assumed she was Indiana-bound. Instead, the Fever passed-and the fanbase noticed.
Social media buzzed with confusion and disappointment, as some supporters felt their offensive wishlist had been ignored. While Indiana’s strategy may prove wise in the long run, the immediate reaction was loud and clear: fans wanted fireworks, but got defense.
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