As the WNBA prepares for its regular season kick-off next week, teams are facing the tough decision of finalizing their rosters, and for the Indiana Fever, that process has already led to a significant cut. On May 9, 2025, the Fever announced they had waived forward Yvonne Ejim, a player they selected with the No. 33 overall pick in the third round of the 2025 WNBA Draft. The decision to cut Ejim, who was drafted less than a month ago, comes as the Fever trimmed their roster down to the required 12 players.
Ejim, a 6-1 forward, had limited opportunities during the Fever's preseason games. In their first match against the Brazilian National Team, she managed to score six points, shooting 3-for-5 from the field, while also contributing a rebound and a steal in 12 minutes of play. However, her performance against the Washington Mystics was less impressive, as she recorded zero points and two turnovers in just five minutes on the court.
Despite her early exit from the Fever, Ejim remains a promising talent and is set to represent Canada in the upcoming 2026 FIBA World Cup. She previously showcased her skills on the international stage as a member of the Canadian Olympic team in Paris in 2024. Her collegiate career at Gonzaga was nothing short of stellar; she averaged 20.7 points per game with a 53.1 field goal percentage, along with 9.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.0 blocks in her senior season. Her accolades include being named back-to-back West Coast Conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and 2025.
In a statement regarding Ejim's release, the Fever tweeted, "we have waived forward Yvonne Ejim. Thank you, Yvonne ❤️" This sentiment reflects the bittersweet nature of roster cuts in professional sports, especially for a player who has shown great potential.
Meanwhile, the Fever's roster decisions are not unique. Across the league, teams are making difficult choices as they prepare for the start of the season. The Atlanta Dream, for example, are facing their own set of challenges as they aim to finalize their roster. With only 11 spots available, the Dream are weighing their options among several players, including Maya Caldwell and Ashley Joens, both of whom are on training camp contracts, along with 2025 draftees Shyanne Sellers and Taylor Thierry.
As reported by Her Hoop Stats’ Richard Cohen, the competition for the final roster spot is fierce, particularly among the wing players. Caldwell, who has two seasons of WNBA experience, may have the edge, but Joens, known for her shooting ability from her collegiate days at Iowa State, and the athletic Thierry, are also in the mix. The Dream's recent acquisitions, including centers Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones, further complicate the situation, as the team looks to balance experience and talent.
Across the league, the Chicago Sky are in a more straightforward position, with 11 of their 12 roster spots seemingly secured. Assuming first-round draftee Hailey Van Lith is a lock, the Sky are left to fill one frontcourt position. Maddy Westbeld and Morgan Bertsch are the frontrunners for this last spot, both known for their shooting capabilities. Westbeld's impressive shooting record from her time at Notre Dame, where she shot 34.9 percent from three-point range, gives her an advantage in a league that increasingly values perimeter shooting.
Meanwhile, the Indiana Fever's roster situation is still developing, with forward Makayla Timpson and guard Jaelyn Brown remaining on the bubble. Timpson, a 2025 draftee, and Brown, who played 14 games for Dallas last season, are both vying for the final roster spot. The Fever's decision will depend on where they feel they need more depth, particularly as they prepare for a competitive season.
In Washington, the Mystics are navigating their own set of challenges as they attempt to rebuild. Despite making three first-round selections in the 2025 WNBA Draft, they face setbacks, including the loss of point guard Georgia Amoore to an ACL injury that has sidelined her for the season. The Mystics still have a promising young guard in Jade Melbourne, but they are also considering other options from their training camp invitees.
Among those vying for a spot on the Mystics' roster are Lucy Olsen and Zaay Green, both of whom led their collegiate teams in assists per game last season. Additionally, Lauren Jensen, who was signed as an undrafted free agent, adds to the competition. Jensen, known for her shooting ability, may find a place on the team as Washington looks to develop its young talent.
As the WNBA regular season approaches, teams are making critical decisions that will shape their futures. The Fever's decision to waive Ejim is a reminder of the competitive nature of the league, where talent is abundant but roster spots are limited. For players like Ejim, the journey continues, and opportunities may arise in other leagues or international play.
With the season set to begin in just a week, fans can expect a thrilling start filled with intense competition and emerging talent. The Fever, Dream, Sky, and Mystics all have their eyes set on making an impact, and every roster decision made in the coming days will be crucial as they aim for success in the 2025 WNBA season.
