INDIANAPOLIS — In a move that brings her career full circle, Alanna Smith has officially agreed to return to the Indiana Fever for the 2026 WNBA season.
The 2025 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and standout forward is set to re-join the franchise that originally waived her just nine games into the 2022 season. Since that departure, Smith’s trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. After a breakout year with the Chicago sky in 2023, she became an elite two-way force for the Minnesota Lynx, earning All-Defensive honors in 2024 and reaching the WNBA Finals.
A Perfect Fit for the Fever
Analysts view Smith as the “missing piece” for a Fever roster centered around superstar guard Caitlin Clark and All-Star center Aliyah Boston. Her ability to “stretch the floor” and provide elite interior defense addresses two of Indiana’s most pressing needs.
- Elite Defense: Smith co-won the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year award, averaging 1.9 blocks and 1.3 steals per game.
- Offensive Versatility: Known for her 39.8% shooting from beyond the arc in 2024, she is expected to benefit from the open looks generated by Clark’s playmaking.
- Veteran Presence: With six years of experience and multiple Olympic appearances with the Australian Opals, Smith brings championship-level poise to a young locker room.
Smith’s Recent Career Milestones
| Year | Achievement | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | WNBA All-Defensive Second Team | Minnesota Lynx |
| 2024 | Olympic Bronze Medal (Paris) | Australia |
| 2025 | WNBA Defensive Player of the Year | Minnesota Lynx |
| 2026 | Unrivaled Champion | Mist BC |
The signing marks a significant victory for new Fever president kelly, who has prioritized adding “connective” role players capable of pushing the franchise into title contention. Smith is expected to join the team for training camp in late April.
