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In a thrilling Sunday showdown, Caitlin Clark led the Indiana Fever to an 88-82 comeback win against the Phoenix Mercury, despite struggling with her shots. Clark, who nearly achieved a triple-double, finished with 15 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds. Her performance was crucial, especially in the final moments when she sank two free throws to extend the Fever’s lead to three points.
Kelsey Mitchell also played a key role in the victory, with all of her 16 points coming in the second half, including a decisive basket and free throws in the closing seconds that secured the win for Indiana. The Fever, who had once trailed by 15 points, ended the month of June with a 7-4 record, a significant turnaround from their 1-8 record in May.
Aliyah Boston contributed with 17 points and eight rebounds, while NaLyssa Smith added a double-double with 12 points and 15 rebounds. Fever coach Christie Sides praised the team’s resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
Despite battling an illness and playing almost the entire game, Clark’s efforts were highlighted by Sides. The Mercury’s top scorers included Brittney Griner with 24 points, Diana Taurasi with 19, and Natasha Cloud with 15. Kahleah Copper, tasked with defending Clark, scored only seven points due to shooting difficulties and fouled out towards the end.
The matchup marked the first on-court encounter between WNBA legend Taurasi and the Fever’s rookie sensation Clark. Taurasi, in her 20th season, has been an idol to Clark, who expressed admiration for Taurasi’s career and achievements.
The Mercury initially led the game but saw their advantage slip away as the Fever rallied back, with a remarkable 17-0 run in the third quarter. Both teams faced tense moments with technical fouls and a flagrant-1 foul. The game’s physicality underscored the competitive nature of the match.
Phoenix looks forward to hosting Connecticut next, while Indiana continues its road trip with a game against Las Vegas.