Who Is Aari McDonald, the 5-foot-6 guard just signed by the Indiana Fever?

In an effort to stabilize their roster amid a string of injuries, the Indiana Fever have turned to Aari McDonald, signing her to an emergency hardship contract. In the WNBA, a hardship contract is a temporary agreement allowing teams to sign a player when their roster falls below the league-mandated 10 available players due to injuries.

The contract remains in effect until the injured players return, at which point the team must release the hardship player. McDonald’s signing comes as a result of injuries to key players like Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, who have left the Fever shorthanded.

McDonald, a former top draft pick, will look to bolster the Fever’s lineup in their time of need, providing depth and defensive intensity while the team’s regulars recover.“I was very anxious. It felt weird sitting at home watching the games this time of the year, but when I got the call I was very excited, very blessed and humbled to join a team like the Fever,” McDonald said after her first practice with the team. “I'm just excited and I'm ready to compete and win.”

McDonald's WNBA journey: A strong defensive presence

McDonald was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft, selected by the Atlanta Dream after a standout college career at the University of Arizona.

Known for her relentless defense and quick hands, McDonald quickly became a household name in the WNBA. In her rookie season, she averaged 6.3 points, 2.0 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game. She also finished second in the Rookie of the Year voting and earned a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team.Over her next two seasons, McDonald's role evolved. In 2022, she showed marked improvement, posting 11.1 points per game on 41.1% shooting.

However, her numbers took a dip in 2023 and 2024, averaging 7.9 points and 8.7 points, respectively, as her offensive consistency remained a challenge.Despite these fluctuations, McDonald has been recognized for her defensive prowess. Standing at just 5'6", she makes up for her size with quick feet, ball pressure, and a fiery intensity that disrupts opponents' offenses.Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White expressed excitement about McDonald’s defensive abilities, noting her “activity level” and ability to get into the paint and make decisions once there.

White added, “She’s a true point guard... she brings that energy.”

International experience: A successful stint in Australia

In August 2024, after failing to make the final roster for the Los Angeles Sparks, McDonald signed with the Perth Lynx in Australia for the 2023-24 WNBL season. There, she showcased her scoring ability, leading the WNBL with an impressive 19.8 points per game. McDonald’s stellar play earned her All-WNBL Second Team honors and further demonstrated her potential as a top-tier guard in professional basketball.

Why are the Indiana Fever signing McDonald now?

With Caitlin Clark sidelined due to a left quadriceps injury and Sophie Cunningham dealing with a right ankle injury, the Fever have been hit hard by injuries. Clark, who has been a cornerstone for the team, is expected to miss at least two weeks. The loss of these key players left Indiana with only eight available players, triggering the emergency hardship exception that allows teams to temporarily sign replacement players.“The goal would be to get everybody back to their natural positions if we can,” said Stephanie White, addressing the current shuffling of the roster. McDonald’s signing will help provide the Fever with much-needed depth, especially as they struggle to stay competitive without their star players.McDonald’s defensive acumen is expected to fill an immediate gap, particularly on the perimeter. Fever head coach White emphasized McDonald’s ability to “get into the paint” and control tempo, something the Fever have lacked during Clark’s absence.

White also noted that McDonald has impressed already in practice, showing that she’s ready to contribute right away.

A rivalry rekindled: McDonald vs. Caitlin Clark

While McDonald’s arrival in Indiana is mainly due to the Fever’s injury woes, some fans are also recalling the viral moment between McDonald and Clark from a previous game. The two players’ fiery competitiveness during their college days has fueled a growing rivalry. Fans humorously noted McDonald's arrival, joking about the tension between her and Clark, with one fan saying, “Just make sure she doesn't run up to guard CC while she's doing her recovery, lol jk jk welcome to the team Aari!” This playful reference highlights the intensity and chemistry between the two players, who will now share the court as teammates.

Looking ahead: Can McDonald help the Fever rebound?

McDonald’s signing is seen as a stopgap measure for the Fever, but her presence could provide a much-needed boost. The Fever opened the season with an impressive win over the Chicago Sky, but since then, they have struggled, losing three consecutive games and posting a 1-4 record. The absence of Clark has been particularly noticeable, with the team failing to find their rhythm.Tuesday’s game against the Washington Mystics will be an important test for the Fever.

McDonald, with her intensity and defensive tenacity, could help them regain some traction and set the tone for their upcoming games. However, her time with the Fever is contingent on when the team has 10 healthy players, meaning her stay could be brief.McDonald’s journey in Indiana may be short-term, but it could be pivotal in helping the Fever navigate through this challenging period. With her grit, defensive skills, and playmaking potential, McDonald could be exactly what the team needs to stay competitive while their injured stars recover.