In a showdown between two of the WNBA’s most electrifying rookies, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, the Indiana Fever continued their scorching run with a commanding 100-81 victory over the Chicago Sky on Friday night. The win, led by Clark’s career-high 31 points and 12 assists, solidifies the Fever’s push toward a playoff berth while leaving the Sky clinging to their postseason hopes.
Clark Shines Bright, Fever Dominate
Clark, who has been nothing short of spectacular all season, delivered her 11th double-double, shooting an impressive 8-for-14 from the field, including 5-for-9 from beyond the arc. Her performance not only fueled the Fever’s dominant win but also added to her growing list of accolades. Clark became the first WNBA player to record four games with over 50 points scored or assisted on in a single season, and she is the only player with three games of at least 25 points and 10 rebounds this year.
On the opposing side, Angel Reese had a solid night with 10 points and 11 rebounds, surpassing WNBA legends Tina Charles and Sylvia Fowles for rookie records. Despite Reese’s efforts, the Sky couldn’t keep pace with the Fever, especially as Clark and her teammates took control of the game early and never looked back.
Playoff Race Heats Up
The victory marked the Fever’s third win in four matchups against the Sky this season, giving them a crucial edge in the playoff race. With a 16-16 record, Indiana is firmly in the mix for a postseason spot, while Chicago’s loss drops them to 11-20, barely holding onto the final playoff position as the regular season winds down.
Clark recognized the significance of the win, especially in the context of the playoff race. “I thought we played really well and this was a big one for us,” she said. “It almost counts towards two when you’re in a playoff race, like a loss and a win. We knew it was a big one, but also we wanted to win the season series with them. That was kind of a focus point.”
Star-Studded Spectacle
The game, held at Wintrust Arena on Barbie Night—a tribute to Reese’s college nickname, Bayou Barbie—drew a sellout crowd of 9,445. Among the attendees were sports icons Shaquille O’Neal, Sue Bird, and Megan Rapinoe, adding to the already high-profile nature of the matchup.
Kelsey Mitchell added 23 points for the Fever, continuing her streak of six straight games with at least 20 points. NaLyssa Smith and Lexie Hull also contributed with 14 and 11 points, respectively. The Fever’s balanced attack and improved chemistry, particularly since the Olympic break, were evident as they moved the ball effectively and executed on both ends of the floor.
“We just understand each other a lot better,” Clark said of the team’s recent success. “Having the chemistry and having the time to play with one another you just build confidence. I think you’re seeing that. … I’m proud of this group.”
Chicago Struggles Despite Strong Start
The Sky started the game strong, opening with an 11-0 run and leading 21-9 at one point in the first quarter. However, Indiana quickly responded with a 12-2 run, closing the quarter trailing by just three points. Clark’s back-to-back three-pointers early in the second quarter helped the Fever gain control, and from there, they never looked back.
Chicago’s Michaela Onyenwere led the Sky with 20 points, while Lindsay Allen and Rachel Banham contributed 19 and 14 points, respectively. Despite their efforts, Chicago struggled without key player Chennedy Carter, who missed her second consecutive game due to health and safety protocols.
As the Fever continue their impressive run, now 5-1 since the Olympic break, their focus remains on solidifying their playoff position. With Clark leading the charge and the team firing on all cylinders, Indiana looks poised to make a deep postseason run, while Chicago faces an uphill battle to secure their spot in the playoffs.
Final Thoughts
Caitlin Clark’s outstanding performance against the Chicago Sky not only showcased her talent but also highlighted the Fever’s potential as they head into the final stretch of the season. With the playoffs on the horizon, Indiana’s young stars are stepping up at just the right time, making them a team to watch as the WNBA postseason approaches.
