heartwarming twist of WNBA fate, the Indiana Fever have signed guard Grace Berger to a 1 year contract, bringing the Louisville native back to her professional roots after a turbulent year on the league’s waiver wire. The announcement, made just hours before the Fever’s season finale against the Chicago Sky at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, marks Berger’s triumphant return to Indiana after stints with the Minnesota Lynx, Los Angeles Sparks, and most recently, the Dallas Wings.
Berger, 26, was originally selected seventh overall by the Fever in the 2023 WNBA Draft—a pick acquired in a trade with Dallas—following a stellar college career at Indiana University. As a Hoosier, she shattered records, amassing 1,841 points, 752 rebounds, and 573 assists over five seasons, including a memorable Elite Eight run in 2021. A four-time All-Big Ten honoree, Berger’s versatility as a 5-11 point guard—blending sharpshooting, playmaking, and tenacious defense—made her a fan favorite in Bloomington and Indy alike.
Waived by the Fever prior to the 2025 season amid roster crunch, Berger’s journey embodied the grit of pro ball. She inked preseason deals with Minnesota, appeared in one game for the Sparks on a hardship contract in June, and joined Dallas on July 16 amid injuries to Tyasha Harris and Maddy Siegrist. There, she extended to three seven-day pacts before earning a full-season nod in August, averaging 2.8 points and 1.5 assists in limited minutes while mentoring UConn standout Paige Bueckers.
“It’s surreal to be back where it all started,” Berger said post-signing, her voice steady but eyes misty. “Indiana gave me everything—my degree, my dreams, my home. I’m here to contribute however Coach Christie asks, whether it’s spot minutes or locker-room fire.” The move addresses the Fever’s backcourt depth issues after a season of injuries to starters like Lexie Hull. Berger’s familiarity with the system—she logged 47 games and 3.9 PPG in her first two pro years—could prove invaluable in the playoff push, though Indiana’s postseason hopes are slim.
Fans erupted on social media, dubbing it “Grace’s Redemption Arc.” For Berger, a Sacred Heart Academy alum and Courier-Journal Athlete of the Year, it’s more than basketball. “This city’s energy fueled me through the lows,” she added. As the Fever aim to end on a high note, Berger’s poise and passion remind everyone why she was a lottery pick: resilience defines her game.
