The Indiana Fever faced the Connecticut Sun on Wednesday, having lost the previous three matchups in their season series. However, despite their lack of success against the Sun earlier in the season, the Fever demonstrated significant growth and secured an 84-80 victory in their final meeting of the year.
Caitlin Clark highlighted the team’s improvement, stating, “We’re night and day different” since their first encounter with Connecticut. She noted the learning process of younger players in the lineup as a key factor in their development.
In their first game of the season against the Sun, Indiana suffered a heavy defeat, losing 92-71. A closer contest in the second matchup resulted in a four-point loss, while their third meeting saw them fall by just three points to the second-place Sun.
During the initial moments of Wednesday’s game, the Fever found themselves trailing 8-2 before turning the tide with a 10-0 run. Aliyah Boston contributed with a strong layup, and Clark’s three-pointer set a new WNBA rookie record for the most three-pointers in a single season. Kelsey Mitchell also made crucial plays, contributing to an and-one opportunity for the Fever.
Lexie Hull played a vital role defensively, effectively guarding DeWanna Bonner and keeping her to 13 points on 4-of-13 shooting. Hull, who has generally averaged 4.6 points and 1.6 rebounds this season, stepped up significantly with 17 points and eight rebounds in the game, including critical free throws that secured Indiana’s victory.
Coach Christie Sides praised Hull’s readiness and contribution, stating that she did everything the team needed to achieve success.
The Fever are currently riding a wave of confidence, with Kelsey Mitchell on a scoring spree, averaging 25.6 points over their last five games, including 23 against the Sun. Clark continues to lead the league in assists, while Boston has been strong on the boards, adding playmaking capabilities to her game.
As Indiana gains momentum and confidence, they are aiming for a playoff spot, with each player stepping up their performance in the closing stretch of the season. Clark emphasized the importance of building confidence from game to game and the positive impact it has on the team’s overall motivation.
The Fever will look to maintain their winning streak as they head to Chicago on Friday to conclude their season series against the Sky.