Caitlin Clark’s exemplary rookie campaign with the Indiana Fever has cemented her legacy, but her teammate’s overseas road has been less than expected. Fans and followers are worried about it after her teammate’s brother’s plea for composure has caught the eyes of basketball fans. So, what was going on with that key player’s career?

Clark’s fever teammate, NaLyssa Smith was released from the Zhejiang Golden Bulls of the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) making what could prove to be a major move in her professional career. Just months after she signed with the Zhejiang Golden Bulls in October 2024, the team decided to part ways with Smith.

Many are wondering what drove this release and what it could mean for Smith’s career. During her stay in China, Smith showed impressive performance. She did a double-double in one of the recent games. Where she scored 25 points and got 10 rebounds thereby proving herself worthy of the job. 

Despite the impressive numbers, her time with Zhejiang was not without controversy, though. Before her release, Smith was involved in a physical altercation during a pre-season game. A shoving exchange and ball-throwing incident with an opponent also saw seven technical fouls handed out during the match.

NaLyssa’s brother, Rodney Smith, commented on the situation via X post, asking fans to stay calm. “Not y’all thinking they really dropped my sister off the squad, please calm down 😭.” During the WNBA offseason, NaLyssa Smith, the No. 2 pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, joined the Zhejiang Golden Bulls. Her background as an outstanding player was apparent in her impressive stats and on-court play. However, Smith struggled with the Indiana Fever in 2024. 

NaLyssa Smith’s future with Fever

Smith’s position with the Indiana Fever has become increasingly tenuous. She averaged only 24.8 minutes of playing time per game, with scoring falling to 10.6 points, 7.1 RPG a decline from her previous seasons. With these factors, and the recent release from Zhejiang, her future with the Fever is in question.

Smith’s future in the WNBA is complicated by several factors. She has come in for criticism for her defensive performance. Additionally, other WNBA teams, including the Fever, have had to build around other players. And that has made it hard for Smith to earn a starting spot.

Smith’s career could go in many directions looking forward. Perhaps she could take an international career — and have a larger role and more time to grow. Or, Smith may have to change her mode for remaining in the WNBA by settling into a bench role and showing she is willing to continue to improve her defensive fundamentals. 

Given her current standing in the Indiana Fever. That puts Smith at a critical juncture in her decision on her future in basketball. Her family and fans support and strategic decisions along her career path will be crucial as she begins to navigate her legacy in the professional basketball.