Former Arizona Wildcats star and No. 3 overall WNBA draft pick Aari McDonald will miss the start of the upcoming season, a frustrating setback for the dynamic guard who has battled adversity throughout her professional career.

McDonald confirmed the news on social media this week, stating she will be ready to play in the 2026 season but not for its opening tip-off. This continues a challenging pro journey marked by resilience, as she has repeatedly fought her way back from injuries and roster cuts.

Her 2024 season was a testament to that perseverance. After being waived by the LA Sparks in training camp, she stayed ready and seized an opportunity with the Indiana Fever following a rash of injuries. McDonald quickly became a fan favorite, earning a rest-of-season contract and averaging 9.8 points and 4.7 assists, later calling it her happiest time in the WNBA.

Unfortunately, momentum was halted in August when a broken bone in her right foot sidelined her after just 20 games. An attempt to stay in game shape with the 3x3 Unrivaled league this offseason was also cut short, lasting only six minutes before another lower-body injury.

This latest hurdle is reminiscent of earlier challenges. McDonald's path to the pros was delayed when she opted to return to Arizona for the 2020-21 season after the NCAA Tournament was canceled due to the pandemic. That decision paid off, as she led the Wildcats on a magical run all the way to the national championship game, falling by just one point to Stanford.

For now, the WNBA and Fever fans will have to wait a little longer to see the electrifying speed and tenacious defense that made McDonald a college legend and a beloved professional, as she focuses on another comeback.