In a surprising but decisive move, the Indiana Fever have waived veteran forward Damiris Dantas, citing her underwhelming performance during the 2026 WNBA preseason. The 32-year-old Brazilian international, who has been with the organization since 2022, appeared in all four preseason contests but struggled to make an impact, averaging just 4.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game on 31% shooting from the field.
Head coach Christie Sides confirmed the decision Wednesday, stating the team needed to prioritize roster flexibility and youth as they build around reigning Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark and rising stars like Aliyah Boston.
“Damiris is a true professional and has been a great teammate,” Sides said. “However, we felt her production didn’t match what we need moving forward. Preseason is the time to evaluate, and we have to make hard choices.”
Dantas, a two-time WNBA champion with previous stints in Minnesota and elsewhere, was expected to provide veteran scoring punch and spacing from the power forward spot. Instead, she looked a step slow, committing multiple turnovers and struggling defensively against quicker frontcourt players. Her three-point stroke, once a reliable weapon, went just 2-of-11 across the preseason slate.
Sources close to the team indicated the decision was not solely performance-based. With the Fever carrying high expectations after back-to-back playoff appearances, front office executives reportedly want to open roster spots for younger developmental pieces and potential free-agent additions.
Dantas posted a brief message on social media thanking the Fever organization and fans: “Grateful for my time in Indiana. Wishing this team nothing but success. On to the next chapter.”
The move leaves the Fever with 11 players on the active roster heading into the regular season. Analysts view it as a signal that Indiana is shifting toward a faster, more athletic style that better complements Clark’s elite playmaking.
Fans expressed mixed reactions online, with some praising the organization’s willingness to make tough calls while others lamented losing a respected veteran voice in the locker room.
As the Fever prepare for their season opener, the spotlight now intensifies on whether this calculated risk pays dividends in what many believe could be a championship-contention window.