Indiana Fever Waive Guard Aari McDonald as Hardship Contract Ends

Aari McDonald was signed by the Indiana Fever on an emergency hardship exception contract in early June due to injuries to key guards Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham. McDonald impressed during her three-game stint, averaging 11 points and 3 assists per game, and earned praise from Fever head coach Stephanie White for her professionalism, high basketball IQ, and immediate impact. However, with Clark and Cunningham expected to return to the lineup, the Fever were required by the WNBA collective bargaining agreement to waive McDonald as their roster returned to the minimum 10 eligible players. Despite the release, White expressed confidence that McDonald will find another team, highlighting her tenacity and fit within the league. McDonald’s contract termination was automatic as per the league’s rules, and the Fever cannot re-sign her for at least 10 days unless another hardship arises. McDonald has remained committed to staying prepared and has viewed her time with the Fever as an audition for a permanent roster spot elsewhere in the WNBA.