Natasha Howard’s return to the Indiana Fever in 2025 was certainly memorable. Not only did she propel the team to the Commissioner’s Cup championship, but she also helped the team make the playoffs and reach the semifinals in the absence of Caitlin Clark.
Howard, who was drafted by the Fever fifth overall in 2014, averaged 11.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game in 2025. She provided the much-needed veteran presence that Indiana was missing, as the team established itself as a true contender in the WNBA.
Advertisement
More than that, Howard also won the Commissioner’s Cup MVP, as she recorded 16 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and two steals in the title game.
Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull (10) with forward Natasha Howard (6) against the Phoenix Mercury during a WNBA game.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Now, Howard is a free agent, and it remains to be seen if she’ll return to Indiana or play elsewhere. Before she navigates free agency, however, the 34-year-old forward opted to leave the United States for the time being and take a job overseas.
On Sunday, it was reported that Howard would be signing with the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) team Sichuan for the 2025-26 season. The WNBA vet herself confirmed the move by sharing the reports about her signing.
Advertisement
On her Instagram Stories, Howard also revealed that she’s now in China. She shared several videos of herself traveling in the Asian country, as well as a clip of herself watching her teammates online.
The 2025-26 WCBA season kicks off on Nov. 30, and it runs through April 25, 2026. That means when Howard hits WNBA free agency in January, she’ll be away from the United States.
To be fair, it had already been reported at the end of the WNBA season that Howard would play in China during the offseason. She played in China before, suiting up for Xinjiang, back in 2018-19.
Advertisement
Related: “I’m Still Crying”: Indiana Fever Star’s Emotional Message After WNBA Season
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 25, 2025, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
