The Indiana Fever continue to shape their new roster following significant changes over the offseason. With hopes of building a strong support system around Caitlin Clark in her second year, the team is still working on finalizing its lineup to maximize performance.
One major departure was center Temi Fagbenle, who was selected by the Golden State Valkyries as the fifth overall pick in the 2025 Expansion Draft. Her exit marks a notable shift for both teams as the Fever adjust around Clark’s evolving leadership.
Temi Fagbenle Emerges as Key Player for Golden State Valkyries
Since joining the Golden State Valkyries, Fagbenle has made an immediate impact as the squad’s starting center. Standing at 6-foot-4, she is averaging 10.3 points with an efficient 54.3% shooting rate, along with 6.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. Her presence has been instrumental in the Valkyries’ maiden season.
Fagbenle to Pause WNBA Season for International Duties With Great Britain
Golden State recently announced that Fagbenle will temporarily leave the team to represent the Great Britain women’s basketball team in the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket 2025 tournament. The international competition begins on June 19, with Great Britain starting their campaign against Spain.
Following that opener, they will face Sweden and host Germany on June 20 and June 22, respectively, in the Group D stage. The length of Fagbenle’s absence from the Valkyries will depend on how far her national team advances. Should Great Britain reach the final on June 29, she would miss six games for Golden State.
Upcoming Clash Against Indiana Fever Without Fagbenle
One confirmed game that Fagbenle will miss is the upcoming matchup between the Golden State Valkyries and her former team, the Indiana Fever. Scheduled at the Chase Center, this meeting would have been a reunion with her ex-teammates, including Caitlin Clark, but her international commitment prevents her participation.
Impact of Fagbenle’s Absence on Both Teams
Fagbenle’s temporary departure creates challenges for both the Fever and the Valkyries. Indiana must continue to adapt its Caitlin Clark Indiana Fever new roster strategy without one of last season’s key players, while Golden State will look to fill the void in the starting center position during her absence. Meanwhile, Fagbenle’s participation in EuroBasket offers valuable international experience that could benefit her career in the long term.