The Indiana Fever (9-8) delivered a commanding 81-54 victory over the Las Vegas Aces (8-9) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, snapping a 16-game losing streak against the Aces that dated back to 2019. The Fever, fresh off their Commissioner’s Cup championship win, showcased a dominant performance, holding the Aces to a season-low 54 points and a 26.2% field-goal percentage.
Game Summary
The Fever set the tone early, jumping to a seven-point lead in the first quarter behind efficient scoring from Aliyah Boston (8 points, 4 rebounds) and Kelsey Mitchell (7 points). Indiana’s defense was relentless, forcing 10 turnovers in the first half alone and limiting the Aces to just 25.8% shooting from the field. By halftime, the Fever led 46-24, marking their largest halftime lead of the season.
The third quarter saw the Aces briefly gain momentum, outscoring Indiana 23-22, but the Fever responded with a late run to maintain control. In the fourth quarter, Indiana continued to dominate, outscoring Las Vegas 10-7 in the final frame to secure the wire-to-wire victory. The Fever’s balanced attack and stifling defense forced 19 Aces turnovers, tying Las Vegas’ season-high.
Key Performances
-
Kelsey Mitchell (Fever): Led all scorers with 25 points, including 4-of-8 from three-point range, and added 6 assists and 2 steals. Her scoring outburst, particularly a critical three-pointer in the second quarter, helped extend Indiana’s lead.
-
Aliyah Boston (Fever): Contributed 20 points and 7 rebounds, anchoring the Fever’s paint dominance (28-14 advantage in points in the paint). Boston’s efficiency (14 points by halftime) set the tone early.
-
Natasha Howard (Fever): Recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, plus 3 assists, providing a strong presence on both ends of the floor.
-
A’ja Wilson (Aces): The only Aces player to reach double figures, finishing with 29 points and 6 rebounds. Despite her efforts, the rest of the Aces struggled, shooting a combined 2-of-18 from the field in the first half.
-
Jackie Young (Aces): Managed just 6 points on 2-of-8 shooting, reflective of Las Vegas’ offensive woes.
Notable Moments
-
The Fever’s defensive clinic was highlighted by Sophie Cunningham’s steal and score in the third quarter, which helped maintain their double-digit lead.
-
A technical foul on Fever coach Stephanie White in the fourth quarter drew a supportive high-five from the sidelined Caitlin Clark, showcasing team camaraderie.
-
Indiana’s 52.0% field-goal shooting and 30.8% from three contrasted sharply with the Aces’ 28.9% from the field and 25.0% from beyond the arc.
Injury Notes
-
Caitlin Clark (Fever): Missed her fourth consecutive game due to a left groin strain. Despite her absence, the Fever’s depth and defensive intensity proved sufficient to overpower Las Vegas.
-
Las Vegas Aces: Played without Megan Gustafson and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, while Indiana was also without Damaris Dantas (Brazilian national team obligation) and Kristy Wallace.
