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Natasha Howard Responds to Fever GM After Leaving Indiana

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 13, 2026 8:32 AM ET

Natasha Howard officially closed her chapter with the Indiana Fever on Sunday.

The three-time WNBA champion and unrestricted free agent elected to return to the Minnesota Lynx, signing a two-year, $1.4 million deal.

Her departure marks a significant loss for the Caitlin Clark-led squad. Howard started all 44 games for Indiana in 2025, averaging 11.4 points on 55.2% shooting and 6.6 rebounds per game. Her 55.2% shooting from the field was her highest efficiency mark since 2016.

The 12-year veteran forward leaves Indiana on good terms. Both sides parted ways positively as she embarks on a new chapter. Even Fever general manager Amber Cox also had words for Howard ahead of her new journey.

Indiana Fever forward Natasha Howard (6) in action during the game against the Dallas Wings.© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Fever gave Howard a heartfelt farewell Sunday. The organization posted a tribute on Instagram, accompanied by a short but sincere message.

"Thank you for everything, Natasha," the Fever wrote.

Fever COO and general manager Amber Cox reshared the post, adding her own send-off.

"Always rooting for you, @natashahoward_6," Cox wrote.

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Howard appreciated the gesture. The 34-year-old reshared the tribute via Instagram Stories, responding with a simple "Thank you" alongside a folded hands emoji.

Retaining Howard was a tough decision for the Fever, who needed cap space to bring back Sophie Cunningham. Indiana ultimately re-signed the beloved enforcer to a one-year deal.

The Fever also retooled at the forward position, signing former Golden State Valkyries forward Monique Billings to a multi-year deal.

For Howard, the move to Minnesota completes a full-circle moment. The two-time All-Star and former WNBA Defensive Player of the Year won her first championship with the Lynx in 2017. She captured two more titles with the Seattle Storm in 2018 and 2020.

Now, the Fever moves forward with renewed optimism. With Clark fully healthy entering the 2026 season, Indiana is poised for a deeper playoff run.

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

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