The Connecticut Sun swept the Indiana Fever, bringing an end to their historic season in the opening round of the playoffs. The Fever accomplished many things this season, including making it to the postseason for the first time since 2016 and having guard Caitlin Clark earn Rookie of the Year.
Nevertheless, with Kelsey Mitchell, the leading scorer for the Fever, becoming an unrestricted free agent, there may be questions going into the offseason. Additionally, forward NaLyssa Smith had a less role this season. Following her lengthy Instagram post, fans speculated that Smith is not happy with the Fever and may be looking for bigger possibilities elsewhere.
Fever coach Christie Sides, however, made it clear that Smith is one of the reasons for their strong campaign, calling her an “incredible player.”
According to Sides, “She had great moments for us throughout the year,” according to a story by Chloe Peterson of IndyStar. “She is one of the key pieces that we were able to have such a successful year.” The 24-year-old Smith explained that her most recent post wasn’t a farewell but rather a message of gratitude after her averages dropped to career-lows of 24.8 minutes, 10.6 points, and 7.1 rebounds per game. The 47-year-old Sides claimed that she discussed their future together with Smith.
“The conversations that we had yesterday in exit meetings were just about how she can be better, and how she can help our team be better,” Sides said. “I love that about her. I love that she wants to make sure that she is doing what she has to do to be better.”
