It’s only been two games, but former Arizona women’s basketball star Aari McDonald has made a name for herself with the fans of the Indiana Fever.
McDonald made her debut with the Fever on June 3 after just one practice with the team. Indiana secured its first win since star Caitlin Clark went out with an injury, and the former Wildcat was a big reason why.
McDonald came off the bench and played just over 27 minutes. She didn’t shoot efficiently, but her energy helped boost the flagging team. She contributed seven points and one rebound. She led the team with five assists and three steals against the Washington Mystics. The Fever’s 85-76 win improved their record to 6-4.
After the game, she earned the praise of both head coach Stephanie White and the fans.
“You came in and you impacted the ball game. You settled us down. You were aggressive. Your defense set the tone.”
Stephanie White praised Aari McDonald in the locker room after tonight’s win pic.twitter.com/41DTkXq4F5
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) June 4, 2025
The fans took to social media to tell the Fever’s front office that they wanted McDonald permanently, even helpfully suggesting who should be cut in order to keep the diminutive guard.
McDonald followed up with a more efficient night from 3 against the Chicago Sky on Saturday. After a 1-for-5 night against the Mystics, McDonald went 3 for 6 from distance against the Sky. It was part of a 4-for-8 day from the field.
Aari McDonald knocks down back-to-back threes.
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) June 8, 2025
McDonald had 12 points in 25 minutes against Chicago, joining three other Fever in double digits. She added two rebounds, two assists, three steals, and one block. The win improved Indiana to 7-4 on the season.
McDonald was drafted No. 3 by the Atlanta Dream in 2021. She spent three years with the team before being traded to the Los Angeles Sparks last year. After one year with the Sparks, she was cut in training camp this year. The Fever signed her to an emergency hardship contract after dropping below 10 eligible players.
McDonald’s emergency contract with the Fever will have to be terminated when the team returns to 10 non-replacement players. Her play gives her the opportunity to showcase her skills in order to gain a rest-of-season contract with either the Fever or another team this season.