Indiana Fever Waives Guard Jaelyn Brown Ahead of New Season

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Fever have waived guard Jaelyn Brown as new head coach Stephanie White prepares the team for the upcoming season. The move comes just ahead of the season opener on May 17 against the Chicago Sky.

Brown, 26, previously played overseas after her college career at the University of California, Berkeley. She joined the Fever in February following a trade, but her time in Indianapolis was short-lived, with only three preseason games to show her skills.

During those appearances, Brown averaged 3.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 13.7 minutes per game, struggling with a shooting percentage of just 26.6%. Despite her potential, she did not secure a place on the roster as White decided to cut down to 11 players.

White expressed the difficulty of the decision, saying, “It’s tough. [Jaelyn Brown] is dynamic, she’s athletic, she has the ability to get downhill… she’s a great rebounding guard.” She noted that the team is looking for players who can contribute both on and off the court.

Rookie Makayla Timpson remains in the running for the final roster spot. The 19th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft has impressed during preseason games. White commended Timpson’s patience and ability to play at a measured pace, saying, “She doesn’t try to force things. She allows things to come to her.”

Meanwhile, Timpson’s defensive skills and impressive 6’10” wingspan make her a key asset for the Fever’s frontcourt depth. Brown’s experience with the Dallas Wings, however, presents a different kind of advantage, evidenced by White’s acknowledgment of the challenges of deciding between the two players.

As the regular season approaches, the Fever must evaluate whether to invest in Timpson’s potential or leverage Brown’s existing skill set as they finalize their roster.