On June 3, 2025, the Indiana Fever secured an 85–76 victory over the Washington Mystics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, ending a three-game losing streak. The win was particularly significant as it marked the Fever’s first triumph without their star player, Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined due to a left quad strain sustained on May 26. Despite Clark’s absence, the Fever showcased resilience and depth, with Kelsey Mitchell leading the team with 24 points, Lexie Hull contributing all 14 of her points in the second half, and Aari McDonald making an impactful debut with 7 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals.
The game began with both teams exchanging leads, but the Fever’s strong third-quarter performance, fueled by Hull’s energy and Mitchell’s scoring, proved decisive. Although the Mystics narrowed the gap to two points early in the fourth quarter, missed opportunities and clutch shooting from the Fever sealed the win. Notably, the Mystics struggled with offensive consistency, particularly from long range, hitting only 1 of 10 three-point attempts. In contrast, the Fever capitalized on their three-point shooting, making 11 of 24 attempts
For the Mystics, Brittney Sykes and rookie Kiki Iriafen each scored 20 points, with Sykes adding 10 in the fourth quarter to help reduce a 14-point deficit to one. However, the Mystics’ defensive lapses and missed opportunities in the final minutes allowed the Fever to maintain their lead. The Mystics’ struggles from beyond the arc and their inability to convert key possessions in the closing moments contributed to their defeat.
The Fever’s victory was a testament to their depth and ability to adapt in the absence of key players. With Clark expected to miss at least two weeks, the team’s performance against the Mystics demonstrated their potential to compete at a high level. The win also improved the Fever’s record to 3–4, providing a much-needed boost as they prepare for upcoming games.
Looking ahead, the Fever will face the Chicago Sky on June 7, a matchup that will be nationally broadcast on CBS. While Clark’s absence is notable, the team’s recent performance suggests they are capable of competing effectively. The upcoming game will be an opportunity for the Fever to continue building momentum and demonstrate their resilience in the face of adversity.
In summary, the Indiana Fever’s 85–76 victory over the Washington Mystics highlighted the team’s depth, resilience, and ability to perform in the absence of key players. With standout performances from Mitchell, Hull, and McDonald, the Fever showcased their potential to compete at a high level. As they look ahead to their next matchup, the team remains focused on building momentum and continuing their strong play.
