Mitchell, Clark Carry Fever to 14th Win, Most by Team Since 2016
ATLANTA -- Kelsey Mitchell scored 29 points, including the clinching free throws with five seconds left, and Caitlin Clark added 19 points as the Indiana Fever held off the Atlanta Dream 84-79 on Monday night, securing their 14th win of the season. This marks the most wins in a season for the Fever since they went 17-17 in 2016.
Thrilling Finish in Atlanta
In the final moments of the game, Atlanta, without a timeout, missed two 3-point attempts but managed to grab two offensive rebounds before a fumble led to Mitchell's game-sealing free throws. Despite the late rally by Atlanta, the Fever managed to disappoint the record crowd in attendance, which was the largest in Atlanta’s WNBA history, with 17,608 fans.
Caitlin Clark’s Record-Breaking Performance
Rookie sensation Caitlin Clark contributed 19 points, four of which were 3-pointers, tying the rookie-season record of 85 set by Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard in 2022. Clark also added seven assists and seven rebounds, marking her 21st game this season with at least 15 points and five assists. This achievement set a new WNBA record for the most such games in a single season.
"Our chemistry has improved," Clark commented on the Fever's recent success. She also expressed her excitement about her development, saying, "I feel like there are so many areas for me to continue to get better, and that's exciting as a player."
Key Contributions from the Fever
Aliyah Boston had a strong showing with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Damiris Dantas added 11 points off the bench. Clark’s performance, combined with Mitchell’s scoring spree, helped secure the Fever's victory, despite Atlanta's late-game surge.
Atlanta Dream’s Struggle
Atlanta, who started the day just half a game out of the final playoff spot, fought back from an 18-point deficit early in the second half. Tina Charles led the Dream with 21 points, while Rhyne Howard added 16 points, and Allisha Gray scored 12 before being sidelined in the third quarter due to a flagrant foul by Boston.
Despite their efforts, including a critical 3-pointer from Howard that brought Atlanta within two points late in the game, the Fever managed to extend their lead with a five-point possession. Nia Coffey made a late 3-pointer for Atlanta to narrow the gap to 82-79, but Mitchell's free throws sealed the victory for Indiana.
Kelsey Mitchell’s Scoring Prowess
Mitchell's 29 points brought her total to 105 points over the Fever's past four games, tying her own record for the most points in a four-game span in franchise history. At halftime, the gold medal-winning team from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics was honored, adding to the historic atmosphere of the night.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
