Home / Sports / Unsung Hero Aari McDonald Leads Fever's Surge
Unsung Hero Aari McDonald Leads Fever's Surge
7 Aug
Summary
- Caitlin Clark out with groin strain, Fever still winning
- Aari McDonald steps up, averaging 12.1 points, 5.4 assists
- Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, Kelsey Mitchell also raise their games

As of August 7th, 2025, the Indiana Fever continue to win games without their star player, Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined for the past seven games due to a stubborn groin strain. The Fever have managed to secure five consecutive wins and eight victories in their last 10 games, showcasing their depth and resilience.
While Clark's absence has been felt, a different member of the Fever has stepped up to carry the offensive load in each game. On Sunday, it was forward Natasha Howard who led the team in scoring with 21 points. However, the unsung hero of late has been Aari McDonald.
Indiana signed McDonald as a free agent in early June after she was waived by the Los Angeles Sparks. The former No. 3 pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft has found a home with the Fever, averaging 12.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per game over the last seven games. Her strong play has not gone unnoticed, with teammate Natasha Howard giving her a shoutout on social media.
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In addition to McDonald's contributions, other Fever players have also stepped up their game. Guard Sophie Cunningham and All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell have raised their level of play, helping the team maintain their position as the WNBA's fifth-best team with a 17-12 record.
The Fever's ability to win without their star player is a testament to their depth and the development of their supporting cast. Once Clark returns to full health, the team will be even more formidable, poised to make a strong push in the second half of the season.