Clark couldn’t help but feel sad about Fagbenle’s departure, which was crucial to her breakout season in the WNBA
Caitlin Clark’s emotional goodbye to Temi Fagbenle after her departure to the Valkyries
Caitlin Clark sent an emotional message to Temi Fagbenle as the player left the Indiana Fever during the WNBA expansion draft. Fagbenle, who played a key role in the team’s rotation as a backup player and spot starter, was selected by the Golden State Valkyries, the league’s new franchise.
While fans lamented her departure, the Fever were only able to protect six players, and Fagbenle was not among
A’ja Wilson’s team savage take on Caitlin Clarks’ Indiana Fever as part of the 2025 WNBA schedule release
Fagbenle could return to Indiana sooner than expected
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Despite Fagbenle’s departure, Clark couldn’t help but express her sadness, although she celebrated the arrival of Kate Martin to the Valkyries. Fagbenle, for her part, shared an emotional farewell on Instagram, thanking her teammates for their support during the season.
“To my teammates: we had a season of revelations and growth. I’m so proud of all of you for persevering. Thank you for lifting me and each of us. Don’t care about what others say. Let’s keep growing together. Thank you for the constant energy, Indy fans. You all are the best :fire::prayer::skin-tone-5:,” Fagbenle wrote.
Caitlin Clark left a short but heartfelt message under the post: “Love ya, Tem! Gonna miss you :heart:”. The bond between the two players seems to be one of mutual respect and affection, and their farewell reflected the connection they have built on the court.
Fagbenle could return to Indiana sooner than expected
Fagbenle, who previously played for the Minnesota Lynx in 2017 and from 2018 to 2019, joined the Fever before the 2024 season.
After five years away from the league, she returned with a strong performance, posting the best season of her career with an average of 6.4 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, shooting 50.9%.
Her standout performance was during the Fever’s first win of the season, when she scored 17 points, grabbed six rebounds, and dished out three assists in the game against the LA Sparks.
Despite Fagbenle’s departure, fans can expect to see her back on the court in the 2025 season. Fagbenle will return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse as a rival of the Fever when she faces Caitlin Clark and her team.
The first matchup will be on Thursday, June 19, at Chase Center, and she will return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 9 to continue the regular season series.
