The Golden State Valkyries selected the franchise's first 11 players on Friday night by way of the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft. In a shocking move, Golden State selected Fever forward Temi Fagbenle with its selection from Indiana's roster.
It was projected by IFR, as well as other outlets, that Fagbenle would be the member of the Fever bench that would remain protected. Fagbenle spent much of 2024 inactive due to injury, but she had a strong finish to the season and has been playing well overseas this offseason.
While Indiana's protected player list is not released to the public, along with the rest of the teams' lists, fans can conclude that Fagbenle was not protected. This could prove to be detrimental to Indiana's front court.
Aliyah Boston is a lock for the starting center, as she has been her entire professional career. That has never been the question-- the discussion is about who is behind her.
NaLyssa Smith is a talented four, but she and the Fever have seemingly been at odds all offseason. Then was Fagbenle, who will now be heading to Golden State. With two out of the three heading out, assuming Indiana parts ways with Smith, the Fever have just one proven post player on the roster.
But there is one player that could turn the tide for Indiana
There is one name to keep an eye on as Boston's primary backup: Damiris Dantas. The 32-year-old spent the first half of 2024 sidelined with an MCL injury, but the nine-year veteran showed glimpses of what she could provide in limited minutes.
Fagbenle provided another presence in the paint, both offensively and defensively. Dantas has shown in years past that she has the tools-- namely in 2020 when she started all 22 games for the Minnesota Lynx in the bubble and averaged 12.9 points and 6.1 rebounds over the course of the season. Since then, Dantas has been slowly trending downwards and has spent multiple stints on the injured list.
Dantas' first season on the Fever in 2024, however, saw the Brazilian return to form in some ways. In just 10 minutes per game she averaged 4.5 PPG and 2.2 REB, on pace for a similar season as 2020 if she had played 30 minutes per contest. If Smith parts ways, the second unit has a wide-open front court that could have Dantas' name written all over it. With an expanded role, she could be due for a breakout season.
There are some big names on the free agent market in the front court this offseason, led by Breanna Stewart and Brittney Griner. A move could still happen, but more likely than not Fever fans will have their eyes on Dantas.