Damiris Dantas, a versatile forward for the Indiana Fever, is currently sidelined with a left lower leg injury, casting a shadow over the team's preparations for their upcoming games. The Fever announced the injury on Friday, May 9, 2025, via their official X account, just ahead of their preseason game against the Atlanta Dream.
Dantas' absence is a setback for the Fever, as she is a key player known for her strong presence on the court. As one of only five players returning from the 2024 squad, her experience and skillset are valuable to the team. The specific nature and severity of the lower leg injury remain undisclosed, leaving fans and analysts to speculate about her potential return timeline.
This isn't the first time Dantas has faced injury challenges. In February 2024, she initially signed with the Fever but had to suspend her contract until June due to a prior injury. She also missed several games in 2019 due to a calf injury. In 2018, her season was cut short due to a right ankle injury, which eventually required surgery. In 2023, a Lisfranc injury in her right foot caused her to miss the final seven games of the season.
The timing of this latest injury is particularly unfortunate, as the Fever are gearing up for a clash against the Atlanta Dream. The two teams faced off in a preseason game on May 10, 2025, and will meet again during the regular season on May 20. Additionally, the Dream will host their season opener against the Fever on May 22.
Dantas' absence could impact the Fever's strategy and rotation, especially considering her ability to stretch the floor and create opportunities for her teammates. Her absence also limits the Fever's ability to play with lineups that feature multiple shooters on the floor.
Despite the injury setback, fans have flooded the comment section of the team's X post with well-wishes and supportive messages, expressing their hope for Dantas to make a full and speedy recovery. The team and coaching staff will closely monitor her progress and provide updates as they become available.
Dantas' career in the WNBA has been marked by both success and adversity. Drafted 12th overall by the Minnesota Lynx in 2012, she made her debut in 2014. Before joining the Fever, she played for the Lynx from 2014 to 2015 and again from 2019 to 2022. She also had stints with the Atlanta Dream in 2015 and 2017. Dantas has also achieved success on the international stage, winning gold medals with the Brazilian national team at the 2011 and 2023 FIBA AmeriCup, as well as the 2011 Pan American Games.
