The 2025 season didn’t unfold as expected for Caitlin Clark, who faced a series of injuries that limited her to just 13 appearances. Despite her absence, the Indiana Fever managed to finish with a respectable 24–20 record, earning the sixth seed in the playoffs. Surprisingly, the team found its rhythm without their star guard and pushed deep into the postseason, ultimately falling in a hard-fought overtime loss in Game 5 of the semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces.
As the franchise looks ahead to Clark’s third season, there are clear roster challenges to address. Only a handful of players remain under contract, while several key contributors are expected to test free agency. With gaps to fill and a No. 10 pick in the upcoming draft, Indiana has an opportunity to reshape its lineup and strengthen its backcourt heading into 2026.
One name generating buzz is Kiki Rice, a standout guard who has steadily built an impressive résumé. Once a highly touted recruit, Rice chose to play for the UCLA Bruins and quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the program. From her freshman year onward, she has been a consistent starter and a driving force behind the team’s success.
During her senior campaign, Rice elevated her game to new heights, helping UCLA achieve an outstanding 32–1 record and secure a Big Ten title along with a top seed in the NCAA Tournament. Her all-around performance has been remarkable, as she averaged 15.4 points on efficient shooting, while also contributing rebounds and assists. These numbers, combined with her leadership and composure, earned her All-American recognition and solidified her status as one of the top prospects in her class.
Draft projections suggest that Indiana could select Rice with their first-round pick, potentially forming an exciting partnership with Clark in the backcourt. Her ability to control the pace, create scoring opportunities, and contribute across multiple facets of the game makes her a natural fit for a team looking to build long-term stability. The Fever will open their 2026 season on May 9 against the Dallas Wings, featuring rising star Paige Bueckers, marking the beginning of what could be a pivotal year for the franchise.
