“She’s back.” Yes, the league’s most beloved athlete is back on the hardwood after missing out on five consecutive games. The news by Indiana Fever comes as a ray of hope for fans and reporters, who had been patiently awaiting the athlete’s return. After all, Caitlin Clark’s perfect sophomore run was halted more than two weeks ago! That too after suffering a crushing blow at the behest of the reigning champions. Call it a twist of fate, as the 2024 ROTY is set to lock horns with the New York Liberty. Again.

But let us look at the timing of her return. It sits perfectly with a recent announcement made by the league. So, the WNBA had officially announced the 2025 W All-Star voting on June 12, 2025. Under this, fans are now eligible to vote for their favorite athlete from the league. And fun doesn’t stop there! The public can vote for upto ten players, including at least 6 front court athletes and 4 guards. Having said that, each vote determines the selection of an athlete for the annual exhibition event.

While fan votes constitute 50% in the selection process of a player, the other 50% of votes are equally divided between the media personnel and other players. 25% weightage each from their votes will be considered in favour of athletes. However, some fans seem to have gone overboard already. As players cannot vote for themselves or teammates, the media became an easy target for some people.

Women’s hoop journalist and podcaster, LoLivia Pope, exposed the sad reality surrounding Caitlin Clark fans. She shared how some people have misused media to ensure the Fever star gets the majority of votes. “Multiple media members have had their emails hacked by Caitlin fans…. All for the sake of voting her into the All Star game?” She wrote on X. “This next level shit. Y’all don’t feel crazy doing this? All for an ALL STAR GAME? Weirdos man.”

The 2025 WNBA All-Star has already turned into a chaotic and messy affair. Just two days since the league opened the votes for public. And people did not even shy away from going down the illegal route of casting votes in the name of a popular media person. They discreetly pasted the publicly available email addresses. And for what? Just to watch Caitlin Clark participate this season.

In the wake of this ensuing chaos, another WNBA journalist, Sara Jane Gamelli, shared a screenshot of her email address. It was shocking to several fans use the media celebrity’s email address in favour of the Fever athlete. While Clark is, undoubtedly one of the most popular athletes with a supportive fanbase, why did the public resort to ugly play? The 2024 ROTY has ample skills and an elite gameplay to carve a name into the All-Star event this season.

Moreover, Clark had a spectacular All-Star event, where she broke the record for making the most number of assists as a rookie. 10 dimes to be precise. Her court vision and leadership skills cemented her star potential in the pros. Having said that, Clark’s exceptional skills bolstered the team towards a 117-109 success.

Despite finishing the last season’s event on a grand note, the inauthentic attitude by Indiana Fever fans in a matter of grave concern. What are the fears concerning these individuals? Because one thing is certain. Caitlin Clark has carved a name in the league and is an unstoppable force. Even for an annual event like the 2025 WNBA All-Star, which, coincidently is being hosted by the Indiana Fever this time. And as fans resort to such lowly measures, the reigning rookie looks to return on the hardwood.

Indiana Fever HC Stephanie White bids farewell to rising star

“She’s a dawg. We’re going to miss her.” These were Indiana Fever head coach, Stephanie White’s last words to the point guard who pulled the team out of misery and bolstered them towards success. She was successful in setting a pace for the team and guided the Fever teammates towards victory. Not once but twice.

Yes, we are referring to none other than Aari McDonald. Unfortunately, the athlete’s contract stands terminated as original Fever players, Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, mark their respective return to the active roster. IndyStar reporter, Chloe Peterson broke this bitter-sweet news on social media with a tweet.

Peterson shared a clip featuring White, straight after the practice session. White was not concerned about McDonald not making it. Because she knows the talent of the 2021 3rd overall pick. “She’s gonna find a spot, I don’t think that’s a debate right now,” White said. She’s been the ultimate pro.””

Needless to say, Aari McDonald’s exit comes as a big blow for the roster. She picked the team when they were at the lowest and handed them two-straight victories. As this absolute threat leaves the Indiana Fever, there are other teams vying for the player. And why not! Her swiftness, size, and agility during the regular season has earned her more praise than she could have otherwise garnered.

But as Indiana Fever gears up to lock horns with the number one ranking team on the Eastern Conference standings, should they be worried? Or will Caitlin Clark take the reins in her hands to lead the team to a victory? As fans wait for Clark and Cunningham ahead of the match, it would be a delight to watch the two perform against the New York Liberty in game two.