Indianapolis –

Aari McDonald’s recent games in the WNBA took place at Gainbridge Field House in Indianapolis. It’s interesting to note that these games are separated by a nine-month gap, highlighting just how much has changed for her.

Last September marked McDonald’s final game of the season, and little did she know, it would also be the last time she’d wear a uniform until now.

An ankle injury sidelined her for the rest of last year, followed by her departure from Sparks during the preseason in May. Watching the games from home only fueled her desire to return.

When an opportunity arose due to a point guard injury crisis, McDonald jumped right at it. In her first game back against the Fever, she made a notable impact.

McDonald came off the bench to play 27 minutes, scoring 7 points, dishing out five assists, and grabbing three steals, helping to break the Fever’s losing streak.

“We finally got back tonight, and we made sure that the team, players, and fans felt welcomed. We were determined to make it all work,” McDonald reflected. “When your number is called, you’ve got to be ready. I felt like I did just that.”

It’s been quite a hectic week for her. Last Friday, injuries had taken a toll on Fever’s main ball handlers, leaving them in dire need of a point guard—but they turned to McDonald for help.

She was signed on Sunday via an emergency difficult waiver, with Indiana set to play again on Tuesday. This left her with just one day to practice with the new team.

Making her way to Indiana, McDonald absorbed as much information as she could from watching film and asking questions of the coaching staff and teammates.

“Yeah, it was a lot to take in,” she admitted about her preparation. “That made me a bit anxious. The system was new to me, and I didn’t really know the players. But I watched a lot of film. I had to be a sponge these last few days. I think that helped me tonight.”

The effort she put in paid off. McDonald’s preparations allowed her to play a crucial role in the victory, especially in the final minutes. She not only executed the strategies but also brought her own insights into play.

“The point guard has to have that mentality,” noted coach Stephanie White. “She was even watching film on the flight here. We implemented things she hadn’t practiced yet, and not many can adapt like that.”

Arriving at a pivotal moment for Indiana, this game marked McDonald’s significant debut. With key players out due to injuries, the backcourt depth was limited, and McDonald stepped up when needed.

Her time on the court was not just out of necessity; she showcased her valuable skills. Right from the start, she played aggressively on defense, setting a strong tone and earning offensive fouls while securing those steals.

“I could tell from her first practice that she had done her homework,” noted Clark. “She understood the defense and exhibited knowledge from her time in the league. Her competitive and aggressive nature is apparent.”

“She brings a fresh energy and tenacity that we really needed,” Clark added. “I was genuinely impressed with how she performed.”

Post-game, McDonald talked about the necessity of staying in “survival mode” to continue her career in the WNBA, especially after recent challenges.

“This is my job, so I was ready to give it my all on the court. This is either fever or an audition for another team,” McDonald explained. “I just had to play my game and stay calm.”

“The weeks leading up to this were tough. I trained hard and was prepared for when my number was called. I even practiced some meditation to help with balance.”

McDonald is currently on the Fever roster under an emergency contract, which is available to teams with fewer than 10 active players. Although Fever has 11 players, injuries allowed her to join the team.

If either Clark or Cunningham returns, her time might come to an end, at least under the current agreement. Additionally, the Fever is currently over the salary cap, complicating her position further.

While these decisions are still on the table for the Fever’s front office, McDonald has a chance to showcase her abilities in the meantime, making the most of this new opportunity.

“I’m in survival mode, and feeling that hunger drives me,” she shared. “I’ve always had that within me; it can’t be taken away. But tonight, being on the court with this team and staff felt amazing, and I had a lot of fun.”