It took one game for Aari McDonald to show why she was perfect pickup for Fever

Aari McDonald, a former first round pick for the Atlanta Dream back in 2021, was excited for the opportunity to play for the Indiana Fever - even if it was for a short time.

"It felt weird just being at home and watching the games during this time of year. I was just excited and ready to compete," said McDonald to reporters in her first practice with the team, which was the day she signed her hardship deal with the Fever.

She also spoke about her approach to her potentially short tenure with the Fever, which would be highlighted by "being confident" and "taking what the defense gives" her on the floor, especially considering it would be her first game with a new playbook and system fresh on her mind.

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McDonald, not once, looked like she was lost on the floor for Indiana in her debut. Despite a low scoring game (just seven points), she had five assists, played excellent defense, and drew two offensive fouls in the ultimate display of being both a team player and someone willing to put herself on the line for this opportunity.

Head coach Stephanie White spoke about why the team picked up McDonald, emphasizing that she's shown flashes on greatness on both ends of the floor, and not just as a passer. That was fully on display in the Fever's win over the Washington Mystics on June 3 - their first win without Caitlin Clark, and their first win in their first Commissioner's Cup game of the season.

McDonald proved why she belonged with Fever in just one game

McDonald, who may slide in for more minutes over Sydney Colson as a backup to Caitlin Clark, was a pest defensively the entire game against Washington despite her smaller stature. In addition, it just felt like the offense was a lot more organized with her on the court. Her drives to the basket and ability to spray out from the post after letting her gravity do most of the work was most impressive.

She would have a shot at staying with the Fever if they had someone injured long-term and were able to offer her a roster spot and a standard contract, but that doesn't seem to be the case given the fact that Sophie Cunningham's injury looks to be smaller than anticipated, and as Clark is soon to return to action next week.

Still, in just one game, McDonald has proven why she absolutely deserves to be rostered somewhere in this league.