Caitlin Clark's arrival in Indiana has undeniably transformed the Fever and the WNBA, bringing unprecedented attention and soaring popularity to the sport. As she heads into her second season, the Fever's front office has been actively working to build a competitive team around her, with the goal of making a deeper playoff run. A key part of this strategy involves ensuring Clark has the support and chemistry needed to thrive, which is why bringing back a familiar face became a top priority.

The Indiana Fever have been one of the most active teams in the WNBA free agency, making significant changes to their roster. The team has made key additions like DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard, signaling its intent to build a competitive team around Aliyah Boston, Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell. The Fever is aiming to surround Clark with players who can create offense, move without the ball, and complement her skillset.

One significant move to bolster the roster was to retain Kelsey Mitchell. The Fever also signed veteran players, such as two-time WNBA champions Sydney Colson and DeWanna Bonner, and acquired Sophie Cunningham via trade.

To make room for new acquisitions, the Fever made some difficult decisions, including waiving Grace Berger, their first-round pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft. Additionally, the Fever traded NaLyssa Smith to the Dallas Wings. In return, Indiana received forward Jaelyn Brown from the Wings. However, Brown's tenure with the Fever was short-lived, as she was later waived to trim the roster.

Erica Wheeler, who played alongside Caitlin Clark with the Indiana Fever in 2024, is set to join the Seattle Storm for the 2025 campaign.

The Fever also added Brianna Turner, a defensive star, to the roster. A video shared by the Fever showed highlights from a practice session between Turner and Clark, with Clark dishing out a perfect assist to Turner for a layup, which excited fans.

These changes reflect the Fever's commitment to building a well-rounded team that can contend for a championship. The focus has been on bringing in players who not only possess individual talent but also fit well together and complement Clark's playing style.

The impact of Caitlin Clark on the Indiana Fever and the WNBA has been remarkable. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged Clark's impact, stating that she brought tens of millions of new viewers to the WNBA. The "Caitlin Clark effect" has led to increased attendance and TV viewership, and has fueled the league's growth. The Fever's games were nationally televised, contributing to the league's most-watched regular season. Attendance across the WNBA rose 47%, and the Fever's attendance increased by nearly 320% to a league-leading average of more than 17,000 per game.

Clark's influence extends beyond the basketball court, with her generating significant economic impact for the city of Indianapolis. A finance expert determined that Clark was responsible for more than 25% of the WNBA's revenue in the 2024 season, including attendance, TV, and merchandise sales. Her overall economic impact on Indianapolis was estimated at $36.5 million.

As the Indiana Fever gear up for the 2025 season, the focus is on building team chemistry and maximizing their potential. Clark's growing connection with teammate Aliyah Boston is expected to fuel the Fever's hopes for a deeper postseason run. The team's new additions, including veterans with championship experience, are poised to contribute to the Fever's success.