Indiana Fever’s backcourt duo, Kelsey Mitchell and Odyssey Sims, made significant strides in the WNBA semifinals as they tallied a combined 51 points, leading their team to a 16-point victory over the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1. Odyssey Sims contributed with 17 points, three assists, and three steals, helping Fever secure a 1-0 series lead. The aim is clear – to propel Indiana to their first WNBA Finals since 2015. However, despite this early win, the Aces remain the favorites to advance, but that doesn’t faze Sims.
Odyssey Sims, aptly named for her long and eventful career in the WNBA, represents resilience. As a 12-year veteran, she’s played for multiple teams across the league. After being waived multiple times, she found her stride with the Fever, who retained her under a hardship contract following injuries to key players Sydney Colson, Aari McDonald, and Caitlin Clark.
Sims emphasizes staying prepared has been her mantra. “When a team waives me, I always keep the mindset of just staying ready, and it’s paid off,” she shared with CBS Sports. Her presence in Indiana is as much about filling a critical gap as it is showcasing her perseverance in the face of adversity.
Despite the injuries, the Fever maintains a united front. Those unable to play, dubbed the Bench Mob, offer unyielding support as a creative encouragement squad, famously resulting in a $200 fine for Caitlin Clark due to their energetic antics. This camaraderie illustrates the Fever’s motto, “We over me,” emphasizing collective success over individual accolades.
Sims also contributes significantly to the team’s strategy on the court, facilitating plays for stars like Kelsey Mitchell and helping maintain a strong floor pace, a crucial aspect championed by head coach Stephanie White. Sims’ personal statistics this playoff season – averaging 12 points across nearly 30 minutes per game – are her best since 2020.
The Fever, despite being labeled underdogs, are buoyed by their team spirit and determination. They acknowledge the strength of their opponents, the Aces, who had earlier enjoyed a 16-game winning streak. “We’re not satisfied with just being in the semifinals,” asserts Sims, confident in her team’s ability to confront challenges head-on. Game 2 is expected to be tougher, and the Fever remains prepared for whatever comes their way.
Sims’ own journey mirrors the resilience and persistent spirit of her team. “I could have given up, but I said, ‘No, I’m not done yet,’” she reflected. For Sims and the Fever, the journey is as significant as the destination, and for now, they’re relishing every moment of this odyssey.