Finally, Sophie Cunningham has extended her stay with the Indiana Fever, just like Kelsey Mitchell, but only for one more season. Caitlin Clark’s rookie contract runs through 2026, so the franchise could be protecting its assets to ensure it retains its biggest star.
“Not shocking to see Indiana dealing out one-year deals (Kelsey Mitchell too). Remember, Caitlin Clark can get a big salary bump next year under the new EPIC provision (Aliyah Boston is eligible for it this year). Fever would have to do some retooling to fit everyone under the cap,” the insider Alexa Philippou revealed on X.
The Fever retained Mitchell on a $1.4 million max contract. What numbers will they be analyzing when offering Clark a deal in 2027?
Clark’s contract situation
Under the landmark 2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement, Caitlin Clark’s financial trajectory has shifted significantly. While she remains on her rookie deal, the new “EPIC” provision (Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract) has already boosted her 2026 salary from approximately $86,000 to $528,846.
Caitlin Clark #17
Because of her All-WNBA First Team status, she is projected to become eligible for a $1.3 million maximum contract in 2027, followed by a potential $1.7 million supermax in 2028. By keeping other veteran contracts short, the Indiana Fever are strategically clearing cap space to ensure they can offer Clark these historic figures as soon as she becomes eligible.
Fever keep their stars
The Fever have solidified their core for the 2026 season by securing key veterans alongside their young stars. While Kelsey Mitchell and Sophie Cunningham return to the team, Lexie Hull signs multi-year deal with Indiana to provide long-term stability on the wing.
Lexie Hull #10 of the Indiana Fever.
With these retentions, the Fever ensure that Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston remain surrounded by a proven supporting cast for another title run.
When does the season start for Indiana?
The Indiana Fever will officially tip off their 2026 regular season at home on Saturday, May 9, against the Dallas Wings at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET and marks the start of a 44-game campaign.
Fans can also catch a first glimpse of the team during the preseason, which begins with a road game against the New York Liberty on April 25, followed by a home exhibition against Dallas on April 30.
