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Stephanie White sends clear message about Indiana Fever veteran's role

Stephanie White sends clear message about Indiana Fever veteran's role originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Indiana Fever continue searching for the right lineup combinations early in the 2026 season, and that process has left one veteran watching from the bench. Damiris Dantas did not play in Indiana's previous three games entering Saturday night's matchup against the Portland Fire, prompting questions about where the longtime WNBA veteran fits in Stephanie White's current rotation.

Before tipoff, White addressed the situation directly and made it clear that Dantas' recent absence has more to do with matchups and the emergence of rookie Makayla Timpson than any long-term change in plans. In fact, White suggested Dantas could be back on the floor sooner rather than later.

Stephanie White explains Damiris Dantas' recent absence

When asked why Dantas had received three consecutive DNPs, White pointed to both opponent-specific game plans and Timpson's recent performance.

"It's gone a little bit with Makayla Timpson playing well and a little bit because of our opponent," White explained.

The Fever have recently faced teams that rely heavily on smaller, more versatile lineups. According to White, those matchups have favored Timpson's mobility and defensive flexibility.

"I mean, small teams playing with versatile lineups and having the versatility that Timpson brings offensively and defensively," White said. "Especially when we were in a lot of our switches, has kind of kept Dantas out of the rotation."

Timpson once again played a significant role against Portland. The rookie logged 25 minutes and finished with 11 points, six rebounds and two blocks.

Meanwhile, Dantas remained on the bench throughout Indiana's 100-84 loss.

Fever coach expects Dantas to return

While Dantas has temporarily lost her spot in the rotation, White was quick to shut down any notion that the move is permanent. The Fever coach said upcoming opponents could create opportunities for the veteran forward to re-enter the lineup.

"Certainly not something that's going to continue," White said before Saturday's game. "When you think about our next three or four games, I expect DD to be back in the rotation."

That statement should provide reassurance for Fever fans wondering whether Dantas had fallen completely out of favor. The 33-year-old brings valuable experience to a roster that is still learning how all of its pieces fit together around Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston and the rest of Indiana's core.

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Fever balancing development and winning

The situation also highlights one of the biggest challenges facing White this season. Indiana entered the year with increased expectations after a busy offseason, but the Fever also added several new faces who need opportunities to develop. Timpson has taken advantage of her recent minutes, making it difficult for the coaching staff to take her off the floor.

At the same time, veterans such as Dantas remain important depth pieces over the course of a long season. Dantas last appeared on May 17 against the Seattle Storm, recording three points and a block in six minutes. Through four appearances this season, she is averaging 4.0 points and 1.0 rebounds in 9.3 minutes per game.

For now, Timpson appears to have earned the edge in Indiana's frontcourt rotation. But based on White's comments, Dantas' stint on the bench may not last much longer.