Indiana Fever decision to release Caitlin Clark teammate leaves WNBA fans devastated

The Indiana Fever’s ruthless offseason continued, with the mutual release of forward Katie Lou Samuelson, after the 27-year-old helped the WNBA franchise reach the playoffs in 2024

WNBA fans have been devastated by the Indiana Fever’s decision to release Katie Lou Samuelson, Caitlin Clark’s close teammate.

Samuelson, 27, played alongside Clark as the former Iowa Hawkeyes and NCAA superstar put up a record-breaking rookie campaign. As a team, the Fever finished 2024 with an even 20-20 record and even made a postseason appearance, but they were knocked out by the Connecticut Sun.

“We have mutually parted ways with forward Katie Lou Samuelson. Wishing you all the best, Lou,” the Fever posted on their X social media account. However, Indiana’s decision hasn’t gone down well, and some WNBA fans have expressed their disappointment with the decision.

That was a mistake,” one said. “That seems vague. What does this mean in terms of the roster?” another questioned. “Good locker room presence tbh. Wishing her the best, Mama Lou,” a third replied. “Best wishes Katie Lou! I really wish we could have kept you. The business side kinda stopped that. I hope you do great wherever you go to next in lifes journey!” a fourth tweeted.

Despite Samuelson’s exit, the Fever has been making some big offseason moves, hoping to fire Indiana into championship contention. Stephanie White took over as coach, with Amber Cox becoming general manager. On the court, the Fever brought in WNBA champions DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard.

Such moves have been approved by Clark. “They know what it takes to win, they know what it takes to get to the Finals, they know what it takes to win championships,” Clark said about her new teammates. “I think it’s exactly what we needed in our locker room. But also they’re not just really good basketball players, they’re great leaders and great people and I know the front office prioritized that.”

Katie Lou Samuelson and Caitlin Clark helped the Fever reach the postseason in 2024“This is the franchise of all women’s sports, I say, no matter what sport it is,” Clark added. “They see the type of crowds we get, the excitement we’re generating not only in Indiana but all across the country. I think the next few years are going to be amazing for this franchise and will continue to be for, hopefully, the next 10 years. Hopefully, we win a few championships.”

Clark is looking forward to getting back on the court and prepare herself and the Fever for the 2025 season. Training with new faces has Clark itching to return. “I think it will be a lot of fun to get in the gym and be with my teammates and just start putting the pieces together and see what works or what doesn’t,” Clark said.

“But I think we’re going to have a lot of different options to do a lot of different things. I think that’s what’s super exciting.”