Fever Demote WNBA All-Star Before Dream Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated May 10, 2025 4:03 PM ET

Caitlin Clark couldn't have asked for a better 2025 WNBA preseason debut, defeating the Brazil national team 108-44 in front of Iowa Hawkeyes fans at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

Sitting at 2-0 in preseason play, the Fever played their final game before the regular season began, battling Brittney Griner and the new-look Atlanta Dream on Saturday.

Newcomer DeWanna Bonner has been a nice addition to Indiana's lineup. The six-time All-Star is averaging 8.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals in 20 minutes per game.

However, Bonner did struggle shooting in her Fever debut against the Mystics, making just 1-of-8 shots and missing all four of her attempts from deep.

Bonner has started both preseason games for the Fever, but for the third and final game against Atlanta, she will be coming off the bench. Another newcomer, Sophie Cunningham, will take her place in the starting lineup.

The new lineup against the Dream will consist of Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, Cunningham, Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard. It is unclear if the Fever will use this lineup or go back to Bonner to begin the regular season.

first five for our preseason matinee. pic.twitter.com/UoGexEWy4s
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 10, 2025

Cunningham has quickly become a fan favorite in Indiana over the preseason. The former Phoenix Mercury sharpshooter was acquired by Indiana, along with forward Jaelyn Brown, in a four-team deal in early February. The Fever sent NaLyssa Smith and the No. 8 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.

In the overtime win against Washington, Cunningham stole the show, scoring a game-high 21 points on 6-of-11 shooting with eight rebounds. She also showed toughness that Fever fans loved to see, getting in her opponent's face after being shoved to the ground.

After the Dream game, the Fever will begin the regular season at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, hosting Angel Reeese and the Chicago Sky on May 17.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: