Fresh off their 74-59 victory over the Minnesota Lynx in the 2025 WNBA Commissioner's Cup, the Indiana Fever are facing the challenge of maintaining momentum. Despite the excitement surrounding their first Commissioner's Cup title in franchise history, head coach Stephanie White is tempering expectations and emphasizing the need to refocus.

White addressed the team, stating that while winning the Commissioner's Cup was "great" and "awesome" and a goal they achieved, it "doesn't mean anything anymore". She stressed the importance of building upon the positive aspects of their performance, establishing consistency, and stacking productive days. The coach is determined to prevent any letdown following the emotional high of the victory, especially with a game against the Las Vegas Aces looming.

The WNBA Commissioner's Cup is an in-season tournament that began in 2021, with all 13 teams participating. Sixty regular-season games factor into the Cup standings, with the top teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences facing off in the final. The winning team receives a $500,000 prize pool to be split among the players. The Fever's triumph over the Lynx marked their first Commissioner's Cup title. Natasha Howard's double-double performance earned her the MVP award.

Despite the significant financial incentive for the players, the Commissioner's Cup does not impact the regular season standings. This unique situation might explain White's sentiment that the Commissioner's Cup "doesn't mean anything anymore". Although the players will receive a share of the $500,000 prize, potentially up to $30,000 each, and an additional $5,000 in cryptocurrency, the team's overall goal remains winning a WNBA championship.

White highlighted the Fever's defensive improvements in the Commissioner's Cup, noting better initial positioning, disruptive point-of-attack defense, and effective communication. She believes the team is stronger defensively now than they were in their previous encounter with the Aces. The return of Sophie Cunningham and the addition of Aari McDonald have also bolstered the team.

Notably, the Fever secured the Commissioner's Cup without Caitlin Clark, who was sidelined with a groin injury. White has emphasized a cautious approach to Clark's return, prioritizing her long-term health and wellness. There is no definite timeline for her return, but the team is aiming to ensure she is 100% ready before she steps back on the court.

Clark, despite not playing, was part of the team's celebration and commented on the financial disparity between the Commissioner's Cup winnings and the WNBA Finals payout. She jokingly suggested that WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert should address the discrepancy.

Looking ahead, Coach White knows that the Commissioner's Cup victory is in the past. The team must maintain perspective, continue improving, and strive for consistency as they pursue their ultimate goal.