The Indiana Fever have the makings of a team that can be contenders for years to come in the league. Caitlin Clark has continued to grow her game, becoming one of the league's best scoring guards, while also being a dynamic playmaker. Then you have Aliyah Boston, who is a force in the interior and can also step up and stretch her range from the perimeter. They have other pieces that surround them, but this can be the time for them to capitalize on the talent they have.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like it's going to be that easy for them, and it's simply because of the reputation that surrounds the team, city and fanbase.
There have been several instances just this year that have happened with the Fever, whether it was Alyssa Thomas receiving death threats or A'ja Wilson getting into it with a fan during the playoffs. Those are just recent incidents, but there is a dark cloud hanging over the organization that could complicate their championship window.
The Athletic spoke with several sports agents in their recent story about the negative things that have surrounded the franchise.
Article Continues Below“One agent said clients regularly disable social media accounts before and immediately after games against the Fever because of the increase in toxic messages they say they receive. Not all accounts clearly identify themselves as Fever fans. Harassment of Black players, in particular, has included racist messages following games against the Fever,” The Athletic wrote.
Those are not great things to hear if you're a player who's thinking about joining the Fever. Even Kelsey Mitchell, who has been with the team since 2018 and will be a free agent this offseason, mentioned during her exit interview that it's tough to play for the fanbase due to messages and other things she's received playing alongside Clark.