Fever reflect on season following WNBA semifinals run

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Fever had an unbelievable season, despite a lot of injuries.

For the first time since losing in the WNBA semifinals, the whole team is opening up about the improbable run.

“You can look back and probably think it’s pretty incredible what we did, but as competitors, you know you’re five minutes away from the WNBA finals, and that sits in a very uncomfortable position the entire offseason,” said head coach Stephanie White during exit interviews Thursday.

The team suffered several injuries throughout the season, including to reigning Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, who played only 13 games of the regular season.

”It was hard sitting on the bench. I’m not gonna lie, there were certainly some hard days,” said Clark.

“I think it taught myself how to be a really good leader and a really good teammate.”

Four other players also suffered season-ending injuries, including Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham, stirring up doubts about how the team would fare in the postseason.

”I’ll be honest and I’ll say that, not a lot of people even expected us to be here, and I think that’s within itself a lot to be proud about for our group,” said Kelsey Mitchell.

Even with the adversity, loyal fans still showed up to cheer on the Fever.

”I’ve had a lot of people say to me, this team made me feel like I’ve never felt before, supporting a team,” said COO and General Manager Amber Cox. 

“That is just really, really special, and I think translated in them showing up and tuning in, no matter who was on the court, and wearing that Fever uniform.”

While the Fever is cooling down and preparing for next season, other sports teams around the city are just heating up.

“To have this type of success across the board, obviously, the Colts have had an amazing start to their season, and the Pacers run last year, and then everything, we’ve been able to persevere and reach the WNBA semifinals. It’s a really special time in this city,” said Clark.