In a thrilling matchup on Tuesday, Caitlin Clark delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 27 points and providing 11 assists. However, her efforts were not enough as the Indiana Fever fell short at home, losing to the Atlanta Dream with a final score of 91-90. This game showcased Clark's incredible talent as she set a new record for the most 25-point, 10-assist games in WNBA history, achieving this remarkable feat just two games into her second season, according to Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press.
Despite Clark's impressive display, the Fever struggled to contain the Atlanta offense, which was spearheaded by Brittney Griner and Rhyne Howard. Griner contributed 21 points and snagged eight rebounds, while Howard added 20 points to the Dream's tally. Indiana found themselves trailing 89-80 with just over four minutes left in the game, but staged a dramatic comeback with a 10-0 run that culminated in a 90-89 lead with only 21.1 seconds remaining.
In a tense finish, Howard was fouled on a shot attempt, converting both free throws to reclaim the lead for Atlanta. Following an Indiana timeout, Fever forward Natasha Howard attempted a shot for victory, but Dream forward Nia Coffey made a crucial block. Natasha Howard managed to grab her own rebound and attempted a 12-foot shot from the baseline, but the potential game-winner missed its mark. Atlanta secured the rebound and successfully ran out the clock, avoiding any fouls from Indiana that could have extended the game.
This game marked another exceptional performance for Clark, who previously showcased her skills with 20 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds in a dominant 93-58 home win against the Chicago Sky in the season opener. However, the Fever's defensive struggles were evident, particularly during a 32-point third quarter from the Dream, which propelled them to a 76-65 advantage heading into the final quarter. Rhyne Howard notably drained three three-pointers during this critical stretch, putting Indiana on the back foot.
Clark ignited her team in the fourth quarter, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers to narrow the Dream's lead to 80-76. Overall, she hit five three-pointers throughout the game. However, Griner responded with a strong performance in the fourth, scoring multiple layups while the Fever struggled offensively during a pivotal segment of the frame. As a ten-time WNBA All-Star, Griner is currently enjoying her first season with the Atlanta Dream after an illustrious 11-year tenure with the Phoenix Mercury.
Despite the loss, the Fever displayed resilience, particularly during their impressive 10-0 run. Kelsey Mitchell began the rally with a three-pointer, followed by back-to-back baskets from Clark and Aliyah Boston, which cut the Dream’s lead to 89-87 with 1:21 remaining. Another bucket from Mitchell, assisted by Boston, tied the game before Boston made one of two free throws to grant Indiana a brief 90-89 lead.
Both Mitchell and Boston had stellar performances, finishing the game with 24 points each. Boston also added 10 rebounds to her stat line, showcasing her all-around skills. However, the Fever could not secure the win, leaving their record at 1-1 for the season. Looking ahead, Indiana will face the defending champions, the New York Liberty, in an upcoming game on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET.
