Indiana Fever sign Aari McDonald as emergency player after Caitlin Clark injury
On June 2, 2025, the Indiana Fever signed guard Aari McDonald to an emergency hardship contract following a series of injuries that have significantly depleted their roster. This move comes in the wake of injuries to star guard Caitlin Clark, veteran guards Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham, and forward Aliyah Boston, leaving the Fever with only nine healthy players eligible for game action .
Aari McDonald, a 5-foot-6 guard, was selected third overall in the 2021 WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream. She quickly made her mark, earning a spot on the All-Rookie Team after averaging 6.3 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 30 games during her rookie season. Over her four-year career, McDonald has played for the Dream, the Los Angeles Sparks, and the Indiana Fever, accumulating averages of 8.6 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game across 116 appearances, including 29 starts .
Known for her defensive prowess and ability to initiate offense, McDonald brings valuable experience to a Fever team in need of depth. Her signing under the WNBA’s hardship exception allows the Fever to temporarily add her to the roster due to the current injury crisis .
The Fever’s injury woes began with Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined with a left quadriceps strain. Clark, a key playmaker for the team, is expected to miss at least two weeks, with her earliest possible return not anticipated before June 10 . In addition to Clark, veteran guards Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham are also dealing with injuries. Colson is recovering from an upper leg issue, while Cunningham is nursing an ankle sprain. Both are listed as day-to-day, but their statuses remain uncertain .
This series of injuries has left the Fever with a significantly reduced roster, prompting the team to seek immediate reinforcement. The signing of McDonald provides a temporary solution, adding depth and experience to a team in need of both.
With a 2-4 record and currently on a three-game losing streak, the Fever face a challenging schedule ahead. Their next game is scheduled against the Washington Mystics, followed by a crucial matchup in the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup against the Chicago Sky on June 7. The Commissioner’s Cup offers a $500,000 prize to the winning team, making every game in the tournament significant .
Head coach Stephanie White emphasized the importance of a long-term approach regarding Clark’s injury, ensuring that her recovery is prioritized to avoid further setbacks . In the meantime, McDonald’s addition to the roster provides the Fever with a seasoned player capable of contributing immediately.
The Indiana Fever’s decision to sign Aari McDonald underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness despite a challenging injury situation. McDonald’s experience and skill set make her a valuable asset during this period. As the Fever navigate through this adversity, the hope is that McDonald’s presence will help stabilize the team’s performance until their key players return to full health.
