Rookie forward Makayla Timpson is progressively making her mark in the Indiana Fever rotation after being selected as the No. 19 overall pick in this year’s draft. Initially, Timpson had limited opportunities, playing only two games with a total of slightly over three minutes on the court. However, following the departures of veteran DeWanna Bonner and Damiris Dantis due to international commitments, she’s seen a surge in playing time.
In the past ten games, Timpson has participated in seven and achieved a career-high of nearly 14 minutes in a recent match against the Dallas Wings. This increase in minutes has been critical for her development, allowing her to gauge her progress against some of the best talent in the WNBA. “It means a lot just to see where I fit in…,” Timpson expressed regarding her playing time, emphasizing the importance of showcasing her skills while addressing areas for improvement.
Head coach Stephanie White has steadily provided Timpson with more opportunities during games, allowing her to focus on essential skills such as reading defenses and playing off the ball. She’s aware that her performance in these areas can help the Fever, especially as they struggle with interior defense and rebounding this season.
Timpson’s confidence has been boosted through the encouragement of her coaches and teammates. With the support of veteran players like Natasha Howard, who played at Florida State before her, Timpson is learning the ropes quickly. She credited Player Development Coach Keith Porter for helping refine her skills, particularly utilizing her 6-foot-2 frame effectively.
Despite acknowledging that her role is not yet guaranteed, Timpson remains optimistic and committed to her growth in the league, indicating a promising start to her professional career.
Overall, Timpson’s progress exemplifies the importance of patience, support, and adaptability in a rookie’s journey in professional sports. Her work ethic and willingness to learn will undoubtedly contribute to her success as the season unfolds.