INDIANAPOLIS - APRIL 27: NaLyssa Smith #1, Queen Egbo #4, Lexie Hull #10, Emily Engstler #21 and Destanni Henderson #33 of the Indiana Fever pose for a portrait during Media Day at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 27, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and condition of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: 2022 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
The Indiana Fever’s 2025 free agency period marks a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history, signaling a strategic shift aimed at building a championship-contending team. Under the leadership of President Kelly Krauskopf and head coach Stephanie White, the organization is poised to make significant roster changes that will shape the team’s future.
Strategic Vision and Leadership
Kelly Krauskopf’s return to the Fever as President of Basketball and Business Operations is a significant development. Having previously led the franchise from 2000 to 2017, Krauskopf brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the team’s culture and needs. Her strategic focus is clear: to build a team around star player Caitlin Clark, who has revitalized the franchise with her exceptional performance and marketability. Krauskopf’s commitment to surrounding Clark with a competitive roster underscores the Fever’s ambition to return to championship contention. citeturn0news14
Head coach Stephanie White shares this vision, emphasizing the need for a more versatile and creative offensive strategy. White aims to utilize players in diverse roles, fostering an up-tempo style of play that enhances both offensive and defensive capabilities. This approach reflects a broader trend in the WNBA toward dynamic and adaptable playing styles. citeturn0search0
Key Free Agency Decisions
The 2025 free agency period presents critical decisions for the Fever, particularly concerning the futures of Kelsey Mitchell and NaLyssa Smith.
- Kelsey Mitchell: As an unrestricted free agent, Mitchell’s return is a top priority for the Fever. General Manager Amber Cox has emphasized Mitchell’s importance to the franchise, noting her seven-season tenure and significant contributions. The Fever have the option to use the “core” designation on Mitchell, offering her a one-year super-max contract valued at approximately $249,000. This designation would secure Mitchell’s services for the upcoming season, ensuring continuity in the backcourt alongside Caitlin Clark. citeturn0search1
- NaLyssa Smith: Despite starting 37 of 40 games in the 2024 season, Smith’s future with the Fever is uncertain. Her performance, particularly in critical moments, has raised questions about her fit within the team’s evolving strategy. The Fever have a protected salary for Smith in 2025, but her potential departure could open opportunities for roster adjustments that align more closely with the team’s strategic direction. citeturn0search3
Impact of Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark’s arrival has been a game-changer for the Fever, both on and off the court. Her exceptional talent has not only elevated the team’s performance but also significantly boosted the local economy. Clark’s influence has been so profound that she is now among the top 10 highest-earning female sports figures, with her presence contributing an estimated $36 million to Indianapolis’s economy. This economic impact underscores the Fever’s strategic decision to build around Clark, recognizing her as a central figure in the franchise’s resurgence. citeturn0news16
Future Outlook
The decisions made during the 2025 free agency period will be instrumental in shaping the Fever’s trajectory. By prioritizing the retention of key players like Kelsey Mitchell and potentially parting ways with NaLyssa Smith, the Fever aim to create a roster that complements Caitlin Clark’s dynamic playstyle. This strategic approach reflects a broader trend in the WNBA toward building teams around star players, leveraging their marketability and on-court performance to achieve sustained success.
