Additional Coverage:
In a thrilling WNBA game in Atlanta, Kelsey Mitchell led the Indiana Fever with 29 points, sealing the win with crucial free throws in the final seconds, to defeat the Atlanta Dream 84-79. The game was notable not only for the action on the court but also for setting a new attendance record in Atlanta, drawing a crowd of 17,608.
During the match, Caitlin Clark contributed 19 points, hitting a pivotal three-pointer early in the second half that extended Indiana’s lead. Despite trailing by as much as 18 points, Atlanta fought back, with the score tightening considerably towards the end. However, a series of plays including Clark’s assist for an and-one layup followed by Kelsey Mitchell’s subsequent and-one opportunity ultimately secured the Fever’s victory.
For Indiana, Aliyah Boston notched a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Damiris Dantas impressed with 33 points coming off the bench. Clark’s performance also saw her tying the rookie record for three-pointers in a season.
On the Atlanta side, Tina Charles was the top scorer with 21 points. The Dream, however, struggled to capitalize after a flagrant foul on Allisha Gray, who didn’t score again post-foul, hampering their comeback efforts.
The game’s climax saw the Dream close in within two points, but Indiana managed to stay ahead. In the last minute, Nia Coffey’s three-pointer brought Atlanta close once again, but Mitchell’s late free throws clinched the win for the Fever.
The match was also a special occasion off the court, as it featured a halftime tribute to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics gold medal basketball team.