Fever and Lynx meet for final preseason game-Amber Harris returns to Indy in a WNBA uniform

Before the NBA Finals tip-off in Miami, the Indiana Fever play their final preseason game and first home game, hosting the Minnesota Lynx to Conseco Fieldhouse. The two played one week ago, with the Lynx topping the Fever 71-66 in the first exhibition game.

I’m excited for the season to finally get underway. I am beginning my tenth season working with the team and this is always a fun time of the year.

Not only did the roster change a bit, but the Fever also have a new equipment manager and strength and conditioning coach. Plus, Stephanie White returns to Indiana in a coaching capacity, replacing Jim Lewis.

Fortunately, the season began later this season, allowing all the players to be in training camp together. Do not underestimate the necessity of training camp, feeling each other out and getting comfortable. The Fever will benefit greatly from the extra time and extra work to get on the same page.

This team has a strong balance of veterans and young guns. Tangela Smith, Tammy Sutton-Brown, Katie Douglas and Tamika Catchings all have 10 or more seasons of experience. Then there is Erin Phillips, Briann January and Jeanette Pohlen who have less than 10 years combined. There are strong, quality voices in the locker room that will lead by example.

The league limits the number of players on roster to 11. That reasoning is to cut costs so in turn, the teams are stronger but there are fewer players in the league. Yesterday, the Fever cut Abi Olajuwon and Jené Morris to trim the roster down to 12. One more person must be cut by Saturday’s season-opener.

Minnesota is one of the up-and-coming squads. Led by this year’s top pick, Maya Moore, the Lynx also feature Candice Wiggins, Seimone Augustus and my friend Lindsay Whalen.

More importantly, Indianapolis native Amber Harris (taken 4th overall) returns home. I was lucky to cover her high school career at North Central High School because my sister played with her and then I went on to broadcast her games on WJEL.

Harris had a fantastic first game against the Fever, tallying 10 points and 10 rebounds in just 15 minutes of action. It will be fun to see how she does, returning to Conseco Fieldhouse where she won two state championships.

The Fever are still searching for their first WNBA title. They made it to the WNBA finals two years ago, but came up short against the Phoenix Mercury. I selfishly hope, that this is the year when the Fever get it done!