Fever hidden gem showcases her potential to thrive in Indiana with play overseas

The Indiana Fever are back in contention because of Caitlin Clark. Winning the lottery changed the franchise as Clark instantly became a superstar. She finished fourth in MVP voting and dominated the Rookie of the Year race. Clark’s biggest contributions came in boosting the popularity of the W and selling out arenas nationwide.

The 22-year-old’s success added some pressure to the franchise. Their goal is to build a title contender around Clark immediately. It will mean upgrading their roster and finding the right fits next to number 22. It won’t be easy, but Kelly Krauskopf knows how to build a winner.

The Fever want talent and depth, but they may have a hidden gem on their bench. Temi Fagbenle is dominating for Besiktas and proving the impact she could make with more run in Indiana.

Temi Fagbenle’s play for Besiktas showcases her potential on the Fever

In her first game, Fagbenle had 17 points, 14 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and three blocks in a Eurocup win. She went five of 13 from the field and seven of 12 on her free throws. The 32-year-old had 21 points, 15 rebounds, two assists, three steals, and one block in her second contest. Fagbenle has two double-doubles and eight stocks (steals and blocks combined) in two contests.

The center is used to playing overseas. She has spent just four seasons in the W and did not play stateside from 2020 to 2024. Fagbenle has been on several international teams, including the London Lions, before landing with her current Turkish club.

Fagbenle averaged just 6.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in 18.9 minutes per game in her first season with the Fever. She was called on to start in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series versus the Sun. Fagbenle had nine points, nine boards, three times, and one steal in 35.4 minutes.

Indiana could get more production out of the 6’4 center. She runs the floor and is willing to adapt to any system. Fagbenle is not a shooter, but she can make plays in the paint. There were some unexpected moves this season, and the veteran is proving she can handle more run.

Temi Fagbenle has been dominant in her first two games with Besiktas. She is averaging 19.0 points, 14.5 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks. Those numbers won’t last, but her ability to run the floor gives her a unique skill set.

The 32-year-old is a restricted free agent this offseason. Indiana can match any offer, but will they? Fagbenle is a skilled player who is dominating overseas. Several free agents are lining up to play with Caitlin Clark. Temi Fagbenle just did, and the Fever likely try to bring her back for the 2025 campaign.

Fagbenle holds all the cards. She may stay overseas. It is too soon to tell, but Indiana will try to convince her to return. Expect more boards and overall production if given the minutes. Those might be there with the Fever as they try to build a title challenger around Caitlin Clark.

Temi Fagbenle may not return but expect the Fever to have interest. It took some time to adjust, but Indiana will hit the ground running in 2025. Fans should stay tuned to see how the offseason shakes out. There will be upgrades and excitement as Indiana attempts to enter the title race.