Key Free Agents Who Could Shape the Future of the Indiana Fever

by: D’Joumbarey A. Moreau

Season Performance (2023-2024)

Julie Vanloo, a dynamic point guard for the Washington Mystics, proved herself as a strong facilitator. Averaging 7.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, Vanloo demonstrated natural playmaking instincts and showed an ability to knock down perimeter shots, shooting 32% from the 3-point line.

She also proved her skill in tight game situations. Vanloo’s ability to read defenses and create scoring chances was critical to the Mystics’ offensive rhythm. As a veteran point guard known for her calm under pressure, Vanloo often kept turnovers low and made intelligent passes that allowed her teammates to excel.

Impact on the Fever

For the Indiana Fever, Vanloo’s court vision and distribution skills could be invaluable as a backup point guard. As a reliable ball-handler, she could provide the Fever with stability in their offense, helping to create easy scoring opportunities for others while alleviating pressure from primary scorers. Vanloo’s veteran experience and ability to facilitate could make her a leader in organizing plays, particularly benefiting the team’s younger guards.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

Odyssey Sims had an impressive season for the Los Angeles Sparks and Dallas Wings, posting 12.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. Her scoring ability made her a constant offensive threat, while her defensive efforts brought balance to her game.

Sims served effectively as both a scorer and facilitator. As the starting point guard, she shot 34.5% from beyond the arc and averaged 5.3 assists in 29 minutes per game, committing only two turnovers per contest. Additionally, she shot nearly 50% from the floor (48%) and took charge for her teams with clutch performances. Sims showcased her veteran savvy, especially in close games, proving she could both create shots and involve her teammates.

Impact on the Fever

For the Fever, Sims would bring proven veteran experience and a strong playoff background, along with the ability to lead an offense. She could also play alongside Caitlin Clark or Kelsey Mitchell in the backcourt.

As an established scorer with a commanding court presence, Sims could deliver additional offensive firepower at any moment. Her experience would be valuable in mentoring younger guards, including Clark and others on the roster. Additionally, her defensive skills could enhance the team’s backcourt strength.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

If the Indiana Fever were to acquire Gabby Williams from the Seattle Storm, it could be an ideal fit for their team. This season, Williams averaged 7.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, showcasing her trademark versatility.

Williams’ versatility is defined by her exceptional athleticism and strong defensive instincts. With the Storm, she contributed effectively across multiple categories, often guarding the opponent’s best perimeter players while shooting 48% from the floor and 32% from the 3-point line. Known for bringing energy on both ends of the floor, Williams used her speed to push the pace and create fast-break opportunities.

Impact on the Fever

Williams would offer the Fever a versatile player who can knock down shots and impact the game in multiple areas. Defensively, her ability to guard multiple positions could strengthen Indiana’s perimeter defense, while her quickness would aid in pushing the team’s tempo. Offensively, her playmaking and ability to attack the rim would add new options to the team’s transition game, making her a valuable two-way addition.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

This season, veteran Nneka Ogwumike would be an absolute steal for the Indiana Fever. With the Seattle Storm, Ogwumike continued to excel, shooting 51% from the floor, 40.5% from the 3-point line, and nearly 90% from the free-throw line (87.6%). For a big, these numbers are astounding as Ogwumike averaged 16.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. A former MVP, Ogwumike was dominant in the paint and showcased a high basketball IQ.

Her efficiency and rebounding made her a focal point of the Storm’s offense, while her leadership skills were invaluable in guiding younger players. Ogwumike’s clutch scoring and defensive prowess continue to cement her status as one of the league’s elite forwards.

Impact on the Fever

Ogwumike’s addition to the Fever would provide an immediate boost in both scoring and rebounding. Her presence in the frontcourt, alongside young All-Star big Aliyah Boston, would give the Fever another reliable scoring option and a valuable mentor. Defensively, her experience and rebounding ability would solidify Indiana’s interior presence, allowing them to switch on all five positions at any time. Her leadership would also be invaluable in fostering a winning culture within the team.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

The Fever’s standout guard, Kelsey Mitchell, has never played better in a professional season. This year, Mitchell had a strong campaign in the backcourt alongside All-Star point guard Caitlin Clark, averaging a career-high 19.2 points per game while shooting 40.2% from beyond the arc. Mitchell was a constant scoring threat and showed consistent improvement in shot selection and playmaking.

Her outside shooting and ability to attack the rim provided the Fever with a reliable offensive weapon, and she demonstrated leadership by often shouldering the scoring load.

Impact on the Fever

Mitchell’s continued development is a critical piece for the Fever’s future. As the primary scoring option, she continues to draw defensive attention, opening up opportunities for her teammates. Building around her offensive skills will be essential for Indiana’s growth. With additional support, Mitchell could become even more effective, contributing as both a scorer and a leader on and off the court.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

Mercedes Russell made valuable contributions as the Seattle Storm’s center, averaging 5.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game.

Known for her size and presence in the paint, Russell was a consistent defensive force, protecting the rim and grabbing crucial rebounds. Her ability to alter shots and read the boards made her a key defensive player for the Storm.

Impact on the Fever

For the Fever, Russell’s defensive skillset would add a strong presence to their frontcourt. Her shot-blocking and rebounding would reinforce Indiana’s paint defense, making it tougher for opponents to score inside. Offensively, her size provides an extra post option, and her overall defensive presence would deepen the Fever’s interior defense.

Season Performance (2023-2024)

Indiana would be fortunate if they managed to poach Brionna Jones from rival Connecticut. This season, Jones had a breakout year with the Sun, averaging 14.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Known for her efficient post play, she thrived near the rim and was an aggressive rebounder. Her low-post moves and physicality made her a constant offensive threat, while her hustle and energy on both ends solidified her status as one of Connecticut’s key contributors.

Impact on the Fever

Jones would provide the Fever with a dominant post presence and a reliable rebounder, adding crucial scoring in the paint and second-chance opportunities. Her arrival would allow Aliyah Boston to play the four spot, or the two could alternate in the frontcourt to keep fresh legs. Jones’ physical style and rebounding would deepen Indiana’s frontcourt rotation, while her post-up game would add a new dimension to the team’s offensive attack. Her presence would complement the Fever’s developing lineup, especially by adding consistent interior scoring and rebounding.