The Indiana Fever have started the 2012 WNBA season on a high note by beating the Atlanta Dream in their first game. The game ended with 92-84 for the Fever on May 19 and is a positive sign for a team that suffered another disappointing finish in 2011. It also gave fans a chance to see some of the new additions in action, and I feel that Indiana has built a strong team.
The Duo is Back
The start of the 2012 season has brought back the dynamic duo of Katie Douglas and Tamika Catchings. Douglas scored a characteristic 21 points on May 19 while Catchings scored 16 points. If they can avoid injuries this season, the first game indicates that Indiana Fever fans can expect the same type of high performance from them in 2012.
The New Members
The first game of the season also gave Fever fans the opportunity to evaluate some of the new members on the team. Sasha Goodlett and Erlana Larkins already look like great additions for Indiana, and the season has just started. Roneeka Hodges, who was only in the game for a limited time, also shows potential.
Last season, injuries revealed the need for more options on the team. Although the Indiana Fever have been criticized for sticking with veterans instead of pursuing new faces, the new additions for 2012 seem to be good choices. There is always room for expansion, so giving coach Lin Dunn more options on the roster is crucial.
The Return of Briann January
The first game of 2012 also featured the return of Briann January. The Indiana Fever guard was forced to miss most of the previous season because of an injury. January suffered an ACL tear during a game in June 2011. The injury required extensive treatment, surgery and recovery. However, Briann had a triumphant return on May 19 and scored 11 points.
January only played for 28 minutes during the first game. It makes sense for coach Lin Dunn to not use her in the starting lineup but bring her in later in the game. She still needs time to readjust after her injury.
More from this contributor:
Indiana Fever Start 2012 Training Camp: Fan View
Indiana Fever's Tamika Catchings wins WNBA Cares Award: Fan's reaction
Indiana Fever's Shyra Ely reveals her fashion side: Fan's reaction
Lana has been following the Indiana Fever since they were founded in 2000. Follow her @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
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