Natasha Howard‘s return to the Indiana Fever is critical for a young team. Indiana drafted Howard in 2014; she played there for two seasons before being traded to the Minnesota Lynx. Now, she’s back, bringing a unique blend of veteran leadership, defensive prowess, and versatile scoring. As a three-time WNBA champion and former Defensive Player of the Year (2019), her versatility and experience will catalyze the young Fever squad’s growth.
Defense and Rebounding
Even as she ages, Howard can still be an elite defender who can guard multiple positions. She can also protect the rim and switch onto perimeter players, which is something Indiana needs to complement Aliyah Boston in the frontcourt. Last year, Howard averaged 6.7 rebounds per game, including two offensive rebounds per game. Howard’s will help Indiana with second-chance opportunities and transition play.
Scoring Ability
Howard’s scoring ability is a significant asset for the Indiana Fever. She can score from inside and out, with a strong post-up game and the ability to hit midrange shots and even three-pointers. Last season with the Dallas Wings, Howard averaged an impressive 17.6 points per game on 45% shooting from the field. Her partnership with Boston promises to create a formidable offensive duo in the paint.
Experience
Howard’s experience is a game-changer. With 12 seasons in the WNBA and three WNBA titles to her name, she knows what it takes to win. Her leadership and playoff experience will be a rock-solid foundation for a young Fever team that aspires to become a contender.
Outlook
Howard’s addition to the Indiana Fever’s roster is a significant development. Her deep understanding of the game and her ability to mentor younger players will be invaluable. Her partnership with Boston in the post and defensively is particularly exciting. With the potential to play alongside Caitlin Clark, Howard’s scoring ability could be a game-changer for the Fever, potentially propelling them to the next level.
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