The Indiana Fever secured a hard-fought win against the Atlanta Dream, finishing 84-79 on Monday night. This victory marked the Fever’s 14th win of the season, their highest total since 2016, when Tamika Catchings played her final season and Indiana last made it to the playoffs.
The Dream, who hold a record of 10-19, made it challenging for the Fever, nearly overcoming a 14-point deficit to narrow the gap to just two points with three minutes left in the final quarter. However, crucial fouls committed by Atlanta allowed Indiana to maintain their lead in the closing moments of the game.
The Fever’s current record stands at 14-16, placing them seventh in the WNBA standings and keeping them within the playoff contention.
Key highlights from the game include:
Caitlin Clark’s quick recovery: Fever rookie Caitlin Clark caused a moment of concern when she rolled her ankle after getting tangled with Nia Coffey early in the game. After receiving attention from trainers and briefly sitting out, she returned to the court without any noticeable limp and played effectively.
Lexie Hull’s increased playing time: Lexie Hull, who previously saw limited action earlier this season, played a significant role on Monday, contributing 30 minutes off the bench. She registered two points, four rebounds, and two assists, continuing her trend of increased playing time and showcasing her defensive skills.
Kelsey Mitchell’s scoring streak: Kelsey Mitchell, a two-time All-Star, marked her fourth consecutive game with over 20 points, finishing with 29 points on Monday. She shot 10-of-23 from the field and secured the win for her team with two crucial free throws in the final seconds.
Caitlin Clark also tied the rookie record for most 3-pointers made in a season with four shots from beyond the arc, bringing her total to 85. She ended the game with 19 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, putting her on pace to set a new record in her remaining ten games.