INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Fever made a powerful statement in the WNBA’s recent restart, defeating the Phoenix Mercury 98-89 on Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, marking their third win against the Mercury this season.
With this victory, the Fever completed a season sweep over Phoenix, improving their record to 12-15 and positioning themselves at seventh in the league standings.
Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana with a season-high 28 points, closely followed by Caitlin Clark, who contributed 29 points. The duo was part of a balanced scoring effort, with four Fever players finishing in double figures.
In the game’s opening quarter, the Fever established an early lead, capitalizing on the rest they received during the Olympic break, while Phoenix had players, including starters, participating in the Olympics. Indiana quickly jumped out to a 22-9 lead within the first six minutes, with Clark showcasing her scoring ability, netting 13 points in the first quarter alone. The Fever extended their lead to as much as 28 points in the first half, with a score of 48-20 in the second quarter.
However, the Mercury surged back, launching a 20-3 run that brought them within striking distance. The Fever had experienced a similar situation in their previous matchup against Phoenix, where a large lead had evaporated before they managed to hold on for a win.
A crucial moment unfolded in the fourth quarter when Mercury center Brittney Griner, who stands at 6-9, was assessed her fifth foul with seven minutes remaining. Indiana’s strategy to draw fouls against Griner paid off, as her limited court time allowed the Fever to dominate rebounds and command the paint effectively. By halftime, Griner played only nine minutes, and Indiana held a 24-18 edge in rebounds. During her absence in the fourth quarter, the Fever capitalized with a quick 5-2 scoring run.
Throughout the game, tensions mounted, highlighted by disputes involving players. A pivotal moment occurred when a near altercation broke out between Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell and Mercury’s Natasha Cloud after Mitchell was called for an offensive foul. While emotions ran high, officials reviewed the incident and ultimately assessed offsetting technical fouls to both players.
Caitlin Clark, in her return from a month-long break, delivered a stellar performance, scoring 29 points and achieving a double-double with 10 assists and five rebounds.