Fever Face Backlash Over Raven Johnson Draft Pick

Fans criticize team's welcome package for new player as 'cheap' and 'embarrassing'

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:49am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a WNBA basketball game or draft event, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.A cubist interpretation of the controversy surrounding the Indiana Fever's draft selection and welcome package for new player Raven Johnson.Indianapolis Today

The Indiana Fever have faced backlash from fans over their decision to use the 10th overall pick in the WNBA Draft on Raven Johnson, the former South Carolina Gamecocks star. Fans were unhappy with the pick, and their frustration only grew when the team shared a welcome package they sent to Johnson that included a plant, La Croix sparkling water, a team tote bag, and a pack of toilet paper, which fans criticized as 'cheap' and 'embarrassing'.

Why it matters

The Fever are looking to rebuild after a disappointing season, and their draft picks and player acquisitions will be heavily scrutinized by the team's passionate fanbase. This backlash highlights the high expectations and pressure the team faces to make smart moves that will get the franchise back on track.

The details

The Fever selected Johnson with the 10th overall pick, despite some fans feeling there were better options available. General manager Amber Cox and head coach Stephanie White expressed excitement about adding Johnson, a two-time NCAA champion, to the team. However, the team's welcome package for Johnson, which included a plant, La Croix, a team bag, and toilet paper, drew heavy criticism from fans on social media, who called it 'cheap' and 'embarrassing'.

  • The Fever selected Raven Johnson with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft.
  • Johnson shared a photo of the welcome package on social media on Thursday, April 17, 2026.

The players

Raven Johnson

The former South Carolina Gamecocks star who was selected 10th overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Amber Cox

The general manager of the Indiana Fever.

Stephanie White

The head coach of the Indiana Fever.

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What’s next

The Fever will look to move past the backlash and focus on integrating Johnson into the team as training camp begins this Sunday.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the high expectations and scrutiny that the Indiana Fever face from their passionate fanbase as they try to rebuild the team. The welcome package controversy shows that even small details can become lightning rods for criticism, underscoring the pressure the organization is under to make smart, impactful moves to get the franchise back on track.