Natasha Howard's Return to the Indiana Fever: A Game-Changing Move for 2025

Natasha Howards Return to the Indiana Fever A Game-Changing Move for 2025

Natasha Howard's Return to the Indiana Fever: A Game-Changing Move for 2025

The Indiana Fever have made a significant move in the 2025 WNBA free agency by bringing back veteran forward Natasha Howard, a decision that will undoubtedly shake up their roster and bring immediate improvements. According to ESPN, Howard will sign a contract close to the maximum allowed by the league, marking her return to the team that drafted her back in 2015. Having initially been selected as the 5th overall pick, Howard spent two seasons with the Fever before being traded to the Minnesota Lynx. Her new stint with Indiana is set to bolster their frontcourt and defensive lineup with her wealth of experience and championship pedigree.

Howard, now 33 years old, has developed into one of the most respected players in the league over the years. After leaving the Fever, she went on to establish herself as a defensive powerhouse, winning the coveted Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019. She also earned multiple All-Star selections and played a key role in securing three WNBA championships—one with Minnesota in 2017 and two with Seattle in 2018 and 2020. Her elite defensive skills and leadership are exactly what the Fever need as they look to continue their upward trajectory, particularly with a star-studded frontcourt featuring Aliyah Boston, a rising talent going into her third season.

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Howard's return means a lot for the Fever’s aspirations in 2025. Her 6-2 frame and proven ability to make an impact on both ends of the court will complement Boston perfectly, creating a formidable duo in the paint. Although Howard’s 2024 season with the Dallas Wings was cut short due to a broken foot, she still managed to average 17.6 points and 6.7 rebounds in 27 games. Her scoring and rebounding numbers highlight that she is still at the top of her game despite the injury setback.

However, Howard’s arrival raises questions about the future role of forward NaLyssa Smith. Smith, who has been a key player for the Fever since her draft in 2022, had a down year in 2024. With Howard now expected to occupy the 4-spot in the starting lineup, Smith’s playing time may be reduced, sparking discussions about her place on the team. Indiana may choose to keep Smith and have her come off the bench, or possibly look into trade or buyout options, depending on the direction they want to take with their roster.

Additionally, Howard’s signing impacts the Fever's pursuit of Satou Sabally, who had previously been rumored to be a target for Indiana. While Sabally was reportedly interested in the Fever, she recently took meetings with other teams during the free agency period, further indicating that she may not be joining Indiana. Howard’s return is a clear statement that the Fever are focused on building a championship-contending team, with veteran leadership like hers adding immense value to a squad that showed promise last season, making it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

The Fever’s 2025 season looks brighter with Howard’s return, and as the team continues to build around young stars like Caitlin Clark, they are positioning themselves for a successful season. With Howard’s championship experience and ability to elevate the team’s defense, the Fever are set to be one of the most formidable teams in the league next year.

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