
Damiris Dantas played a key role for the Indiana Fever this past season. The 6-foot-4 center-forward was no star, but she was a crucial piece of the rotation for head coach Stephanie White, especially with the myriad of injuries the team had to deal with throughout the campaign.
Dantas made 38 appearances for Indiana in 2025, averaging 4.6 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.6 minutes off the bench. The 33-year-old just completed her 11th season in the WNBA and her second with the Fever. She is set to become an unrestricted free agent once the window officially opens on Feb. 1, and there is currently no guarantee that Dantas will be back in Indiana in 2026.
Dantas started off her WNBA career in 2012 after being drafted 12th overall by the Minnesota Lynx. She did not play in her first two seasons, though, and it was not until 2014 that she made her debut at 21.
Apart from the Fever and the Lynx, Dantas also suited up for the Atlanta Dream for three seasons, between 2015 and 2018.
For most of her WNBA career, Dantas has been a Nike athlete. On Tuesday, the Brazilian took to social media to share a special honor she received from the sportswear giant.
“Today I was recognized for my 15 years as a Nike athlete,” she posted on Instagram, as translated to English from Portuguese.
“And honestly, this 17-year-old girl who signed her first contract had no idea what would come next. I couldn't imagine conquering so much, let alone being a part of a family as special as Nike has in my life.”
Dantas could not help but get a little emotional as she reflected on her journey.
“I look back and see that every step was worth it,” she continued, sharing photos of Nike's commemorative award. “Every practice, every fall, every beginning, every doubt and every victory. Sport changed my life and today I’m living proof that when there is care, investment and opportunity, a harvest comes.”
A couple of her Fever teammates were quick to congratulate Dantas for this incredible honor.
“So proud of u,” reacted Caitlin Clark.
“❤️” posted Makayla Timpson.
Dantas is currently playing abroad amid the WNBA offseason. She is suiting up for Botas SK in the Turkish Super League. She celebrated her 33rd birthday on Monday.
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