The 2025 WNBA Draft brought in a wave of new talent on April 14, with Paige Bueckers making history as the top overall pick.
The Indiana Fever, who also had the No. 1 selection in the previous two drafts, used three picks to strengthen their lineup and boost their title hopes.
UConn star Paige Bueckers was chosen first by the Dallas Wings. The 22-year-old guard described it as a “surreal” experience joining a team in the middle of a rebuild.
The Washington Mystics grabbed Notre Dame’s Sonia Citron at No. 3 and USC’s Kiki Iriafen at No. 7, bringing offensive depth to their promising young squad.
Indiana, holding picks 19, 20, and 33, focused their efforts on adding defensive strength and rotational pieces.
With those picks, the Fever took Florida State’s Makayla Timpson, South Carolina’s Bree Hall, and Gonzaga’s Yvonne Ejim to bolster their bench.
General manager Amber Cox stressed the importance of balance, saying the team was aiming to improve on both ends of the floor.
“Our goal was to improve our defense and add more versatility,” said Cox. “Each of these players has tools to enhance what we already have.”
The Fever head into the 2025 season with high expectations. With 2024 Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, All-Star Aliyah Boston, and veteran Kelsey Mitchell, sportsbooks list them third in title odds.
Timpson, a 6’2″ forward, offers shot-blocking presence. As a senior, she averaged 17.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks. She holds school records for rebounds (1,094) and blocks (290).
“Makayla ranked high for us,” said Cox. “Her size and energy align with what we value.”
Hall, a 6-foot guard, adds a winning resume. She was part of two national title teams at South Carolina under coach Dawn Staley.
“Bree stands out as a top perimeter defender,” said Cox. “She brings grit and hustle every time.”
Timpson expressed excitement, calling the draft moment “a dream” and ready for the challenge.
Hall shared her mindset.
“Defense is the key,” Hall said. “That’s what I’ll deliver consistently.”
Ejim, who trained with Canada’s national program, described being drafted as “an honor.”
Citron, the third pick, cherished being drafted in New York. Growing up in Scarsdale, she often attended the draft as a fan.
Iriafen, selected at No. 7, became emotional reflecting on her heritage and Nigerian background.
The Fever’s draft strategy directly targeted last year’s defensive struggles. They ranked ninth in the league, allowing 85.3 points per game.
Timpson’s rim defense could take pressure off Boston, while Hall’s defense could unlock Mitchell’s offensive focus. Ejim adds scoring depth behind NaLyssa Smith.
Indiana kicks off the season against the Chicago Sky on May 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with tipoff at 3 p.m. ET.
“We believe in this group,” said Cox. “These rookies can help elevate us to the next level.”
