But when they returned to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, things looked… a little different. The stands weren’t empty this time, and the gym wasn’t quiet. Instead, a group of MVP season ticket holders was in attendance. They were invited behind the curtain for a look at how their favorite team operates. “I think the most important thing is to celebrate them as long-time season ticket holders,” said head coach Stephanie White.
“To celebrate them, to allow them to see some of the everyday behind-the-scenes work the things that you do to prepare yourselves for when the lights are on.” That’s a true Indiana native speaking. What the fans didn’t know was that the franchise had one big surprise waiting for them. The one moment everyone has been anticipating, day after day. Yes, the MVP season-ticket holders were treated to the return of Caitlin Clark (on the court) after a five-game absence.
“I hope so,” White told reporters. “The same return-to-play structure we’ve been following. She (Caitlin Clark) was able to do a little bit more today, and now we’ll see tomorrow—has there been progress or any regression? How does she feel, how does she look, what does recovery look like? This was really the first time we’ve gotten her out into live action, so we’ll see what it brings tomorrow.” But more than anything, White is finding ways to fit Caitlin Clark right back in without disrupting Aari McDonald’s momentum.
McDonald was seen bringing up the ball up the court as the point guard, while Clark played off the ball. It showed that the Fever ran multiple actions with McDonald and Clark on the court on Monday afternoon. Knowing Caitlin Clark’s ability to bounce back from the toughest situations, it’s highly likely that she will return and fit right in. And hopefully for Indy fans, their winning score will finally hit double digits with CC on the helm, and Damiris Dantas’ veteran guidance. Wait what?
Yes, Damiris Dantas Might Join Caitlin Clark
Dantas was temporarily suspended by the Fever to play for Brazil in the 2025 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup. Now, she is finally heading back to Indiana, and she’s not returning empty-handed. Dantas was a force in the tournament. She led Brazil to the championship game, where they narrowly lost to Team USA, 92–84. In that final, she played every single minute and dropped 35 points, eight rebounds, and even added four assists. Her standout performance landed her a spot on the All-Star 5 First Team and earned major recognition from her home country.
Fever head coach Stephanie White couldn’t help but praise her: “She was incredible, right? She needs some rest. I’m not sure when she’ll be available, but this will hopefully, knock on wood… when DD gets back and she is available, this will be the first time that our full roster has been available.” Dantas’ return, along with Caitlin Clark settling back in, could shake up Indiana’s rotations just before the All-Star break.
Stephanie White acknowledged the challenge. Especially because rookie Makayla Timpson stepped up defensively and on the boards in Dantas’ absence. But as White put it, “It does give us a little bit more versatility. It’s going to be a challenge, but also something that’s necessary for us.” Dantas herself took to social media after Brazil’s tough loss in the final. It gave us a glimpse into her mindset.
She wrote, “Defeats hurt, but they also teach. And I know that this group has the strength to get up, learn, and come back even stronger. Nobody lets go of anyone here.” Her words show both: her pride in representing Brazil and her determination to keep pushing forward. She may be returning with the sting of defeat, but she’s also bringing back leadership, momentum, and a much-needed spark for the Fever.
