With Kelly Krauskopf back at the helm as President of Basketball and Business Operations, 2025 might just be the year Indiana Fever makes a solid comeback. Despite having some amazing young talents like Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston lighting up the court, the Fever couldn’t make it past the playoffs this season. But Krauskopf knows exactly where they fell short: the need for experienced players. 

In her words, “It’s clear that we have two foundational players, probably three. You know, you get two rookies of the year in a row with a frontcourt player in Aaliyah Boston, Caitlin Clark, and then there is Kelsey Mitchell.” She emphasizes, “I think the veteran leadership that Kelsey was able to provide, we needed to help her; we need to add to that.” 

With an average age of around 27, young talent in Clark, Boston, Lexie Hull, and NaLyssa Smith — none with an experience of more than 3 years — carried the Fever this season. But it was their veteran at the core, Kelsey Mitchell, who led the team. So if the Fever looks to tread a step ahead than they did this season, veteran support around Mitchell (if retained) is the way to go. Something Krauskopf believes worked previously.

“I spent a lot of years just trying to add experienced players around Tamika Catchings because it was really veterans that have been in the foxhole and have been together. Those are the elements of success,” she said crediting the success to experience. 

To support it, she points out how the teams that are in the playoffs right now are loaded with experienced ones. And she is right! The NY Liberty’s success in 2024 was largely due to their veteran players. Breanna Stewart averaged 22.3 points and 9.3 rebounds in the playoffs. Also, Sabrina Ionescu excelled, scoring a game-high 22 points in the semifinal clincher. Well, how can we even question Krauskopf’s expertise? She had led Fever to playoffs in 12 consecutive seasons from 2005 to 2016.

Indiana Fever eyes veteran leadership for 2025 success

Krauskopf previously handled Fever’s operation from 2000 to 2018. Under her leadership, the team reached the WNBA Finals thrice and snagged their first championship in 2012. However, the landscape has now shifted. While Caitlin Clark had a record-breaking year, helping the Fever to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, it wasn’t enough to overcome their defensive struggles. 

The team lacked, especially on defense, which resulted in some tough losses. They had a 0-13 record when allowing more than 85 points. A better defense could have flipped many of their losses, as they were 8-0 when holding opponents under 84 points. Adding some seasoned players next season could make a difference.

Back in the day, the Fever had stalwarts like Tamika Catchings, Katie Douglas, and Tully Bevilaqua, who anchored the team through thick and thin. But now, they have their jerseys. However, Bevilaqua still remains a part of the team as coach. 

Undoubtedly, their experience was invaluable as they offered not just on-court skills but also leadership under pressure. So, who could be the potential veteran additions for the Fever next season? Potential free agents or trade targets might include players such as Alyssa Thomas, Nneka Ogwumike, or Courtney Vandersloot. They could be the presence needed to turn Fever’s fortunes around. And they already have their young focus. Let’s see what they bring to the court in 2025!