In a decisive turnaround, the Indiana Fever secured a much-needed victory against the Atlanta Dream, winning 99-82 on July 7, 2023. This win came after a challenging 19-point loss to the Golden State Valkyries earlier in the week. With this victory, the Fever improved their record to .500 at 10-10, just three games shy of the All-Star break.
The Fever’s performance displayed the offensive strength that has made them a formidable team when operating at full capacity. With a healthy Caitlin Clark back in the lineup, Indiana amassed an impressive 59 points in the second half, marking the highest scoring half for the franchise this season. The team’s total of 99 points is the second-best scoring output of the year, complemented by 11 three-pointers, tied for the second-most in a single game this season.
Clark Leads the Charge
Following her return from a five-game absence due to injury, Clark contributed to the team’s success by directing the offense effectively, recording 9 assists. Although she finished with 12 points on 5-for-17 shooting, Clark expressed satisfaction with her role as a floor general. “I thought I was just a really good floor general tonight,” she said. “That’s exactly what this team needed.”
Teammate Sophie Cunningham highlighted the team’s potential, noting that when the ball moves efficiently, they can have multiple players in double figures. Cunningham achieved a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, further emphasizing the depth of offensive threats on the team.
Despite her struggles with shooting, Clark’s leadership on the court proved critical. Coach Stephanie White acknowledged the challenges Clark faces as she recovers from injury. “For her to stay patient… we just have to help navigate her own frustration,” White stated, underscoring the need for Clark to adjust as she regains her form.
Dream’s Early Momentum
The Atlanta Dream, currently positioned fifth in the league with a record of 12-8, started strong, propelled by veteran guard Jordin Canada. Canada recorded a career-high 26 points in the first half, knocking down six three-pointers. However, the Dream’s advantage dwindled as the Fever intensified their defense and offensive execution.
Despite leading by as many as seven points in the third quarter, the Dream fell behind as Indiana surged, outscoring them 39-19 in that period. “We were a little bit lackadaisical in our box-outs and allowed them to get second-chance opportunities,” Canada reflected on the team’s shortcomings. Fellow Dream player Brittney Griner added, “Every possession matters. If we play like this against any team in the league, you know this is the outcome.”
The Fever’s defensive adjustments played a pivotal role in slowing down Canada, who managed only four points in the second half. Kelsey Mitchell, who led the Fever with 25 points, emphasized that their defensive efforts directly fueled their offensive success.
As the Fever prepare for their next matchup against the Dallas Wings, Coach White reiterated the importance of consistency in their performance. “This is our second game with our whole roster,” she noted. “It’s one game, it was a big one, we needed it, but we’ve got to continue to stack days and build on it.”
With the Fever’s focus on maintaining their momentum, the upcoming game on July 9, 2023, offers an opportunity to solidify their standings as they aim for a successful run heading into the All-Star break.
