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Phoenix Mercury v Indiana Fever

Source: Michael Hickey / Getty – Photo of Sophie Cunningham

Fever Acquire Sophie Cunningham & More in Blockbuster Three-Team Trade, NaLyssa Smith To Dallas

The Indiana Fever have made significant move, finalizing a three-way blockbuster trade that reshapes their lineup heading into the 2025 WNBA season.

Key to the deal was acquiring sharpshooter Sophie Cunningham from the Phoenix Mercury and the No. 19 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.

To complete the trade, the Fever sent forward NaLyssa Smith and their No. 8 draft pick to the Dallas Wings.

The Phoenix Mercury took center stage in the trade by landing star Satou Sabally, along with Kalani Brown and Sevgi Uzun from Dallas.

Dallas Wings v Atlanta Dream

Source: Paras Griffin / Getty – Photo of Satou Sabally

Meanwhile, the Wings also secured Tyasha Harris and Mikiah Herbert Harrigan in addition to Smith and the valuable draft pick.

Cunningham, known for her strong 3-point shooting and consistent defensive contributions, joins Indiana after six seasons with the Mercury.

Last year, the 28-year-old averaged 8.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and shot an impressive 37.8% from beyond the arc.

She is expected to slide into the Fever’s starting lineup, adding much-needed perimeter shooting to a roster that has undergone substantial changes this offseason.

This trade follows Indiana’s signing of former Defensive Player of the Year Natasha Howard, completing an offseason overhaul focused on bolstering their frontcourt presence and adding veteran leadership.

Phoenix Mercury v Dallas Wings

Source: Cooper Neill / Getty – Photo of Natasha Howard

Howard, a three-time WNBA champion, averaged 17.6 points and 6.7 rebounds last season and will pair with rising star Aliyah Boston to form a formidable interior duo.

While parting ways with NaLyssa Smith—a two-time WNBA All-Rookie honoree—marks a bold decision, it underscores Indiana’s commitment to retooling around its core stars.

Indiana Fever v Seattle Storm

Source: Steph Chambers / Getty – Photo of Caitlin Clark (left) & NaLyssa Smith (right)

Smith, who averaged 10.6 points and 7.1 rebounds in 2024 amid reduced playing time, finds a fresh opportunity with Dallas, closer to her native Texas roots.

With these roster changes, Indiana is poised for a fresh look this season.

A likely starting lineup featuring Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, Boston, Howard, and Cunningham brings a blend of youth, experience, and versatility.

The Fever’s aggressive offseason strategy signals their intent to compete for a playoff spot and establish themselves as a stronger contender in the league.

The Fever’s faithful fans now await the season tip-off, ready to see if these moves will translate into success for a revitalized Indiana squad.