The Indiana Fever showcased their growth and resilience in a thrilling game against the Connecticut Sun, pulling off an upset victory. “We’re night and day different,” said Caitlin Clark, reflecting on the team’s progress postgame. “With a young group, especially one like ours with a mix of younger players and some veterans, it’s all about figuring each other out and learning as we go.” The Fever’s evolving chemistry has evidently paid off, guiding them through a challenging season.
🚨🇺🇸CAITLIN CLARK: LET’S GO FOR ANOTHER RECORD—MOST THREE-POINTERS!
Caitlin Clark set a new WNBA rookie record with her 86th three-pointer, surpassing Rhyne Howard’s 2022 mark.
Clark achieved this milestone with nine games left in her first season with the Indiana Fever,… pic.twitter.com/0NtPoi5HC1
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 29, 2024
In a well-balanced attack, all five Indiana starters scored in double digits, with Kelsey Mitchell once again leading the charge, netting 23 points. Mitchell has been in exceptional scoring form, averaging 25.6 points per game since the WNBA resumed after its Paris Olympic break. Speaking about her partnership with Clark, Mitchell noted, “The best part about it is that our chemistry continues to get better. Caitlin brings so much to the table with her pace, space, and shooting ability. You just have to be ready when your number’s called with a player like that.”
The game remained tight throughout, with neither team able to pull away significantly. The Connecticut Sun made a late push to reclaim the lead, but two clutch free throws from Lexie Hull, who scored 17 points in just her second start of the season, sealed the win for the Fever. This victory moves Indiana to a 15-16 record as they continue their push for a postseason berth, while Connecticut falls to 22-8. DiJonai Carrington led the Sun with 19 points and six steals, and Alyssa Thomas contributed 17 points, six rebounds, and six assists.
The Fever’s win was witnessed by a record-breaking crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, with an official attendance of 17,274. This game helped the Fever set a WNBA attendance record, surpassing 500,000 fans at home and road games over the season. Among the enthusiastic fans were Olympic gold medalists Simone Biles and Gabby Thomas, who cheered on the players and expressed their excitement on social media afterward. “EVERYONE WATCHES WOMEN’S SPORTS,” Biles posted, sharing her joy in supporting the WNBA. Thomas echoed her enthusiasm, saying, “Had so much fun supporting these stars.”
Watch: Stephen A. Smith Goes Scorched Earth on WNBA MVP Over ‘Insane’ Caitlin Clark Snub in Heated Segment. via @WestJournalism https://t.co/ITclxElrhP
— TazRebel 🗽🇺🇸 (@LordWolfen) August 29, 2024
Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky saw Angel Reese’s historic streak of 20+ rebounds in three consecutive games come to an end in a narrow 74-70 loss to the Washington Mystics. Despite the end of her streak, Reese continued her dominant form on the boards, grabbing 14 rebounds—her 24th consecutive game with double-digit rebounds—along with seven points and two assists. This impressive performance continues to cement her reputation in an outstanding rookie season where she has set multiple rebounding records.
The Mystics, who have struggled throughout the season, were led by Stefanie Dolson’s 17 points, helping them improve their record to 9-22. On the other hand, the Sky, despite Michaela Onyenwere’s 15 points, fell to 11-19, missing an opportunity to climb in the standings.
Key Points:
i. Indiana Fever defeated the Connecticut Sun in a close game, showcasing strong team chemistry and balanced scoring.
ii. Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana with 23 points, while Lexie Hull’s crucial free throws helped secure the win.
iii. The game set a WNBA attendance record, with over 500,000 fans attending Indiana Fever games this season.
iv. gold medalists Simone Biles and Gabby Thomas were among the spectators, showing support for women’s sports.
v. Angel Reese’s streak of 20+ rebounds ended in a loss for the Chicago Sky, but she continues her impressive rookie season.
Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
