Aari McDonald's WNBA Comeback Delayed by Injury

Aari McDonald, formerly a top draft pick and standout player for Arizona women's basketball, has stated she will play in the 2026 WNBA season but will not be ready for its commencement.

McDonald has a history of injuries since entering the professional league, yet has shown resilience in her recovery efforts. After being cut by the LA Sparks in training camp last season, she was signed by the Indiana Fever due to their injury issues, becoming a fan favorite.

Her 2025 season with the Fever was cut short in August after 20 games due to a broken bone in her right foot, during which she contributed 9.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. She later joined the 3x3 Unrivaled league to maintain fitness during her recovery but suffered another lower extremity injury after only six minutes of play.

Earlier in her career, the pandemic and a foot injury prevented McDonald from leaving Arizona after the 2019-20 season. She returned to college and led the Wildcats to the 2021 national title game, ultimately losing by one point.