Following their biggest win of the season over the New York Liberty on Saturday, the Indiana Fever returned to Gainbridge Fieldhouse today for their annual Kids Day game, hosting the Washington Mystics.
The Mystics started off the game cold, missing their first four shots from the floor. Caitlin Clark quickly took advantage of the situation, feeding the ball inside to Samuelson, who scored effortlessly.
Clark displayed her agility and precision throughout the game. In one notable sequence, she worked on Vanl, made a pretty step-back move, and hit a three-pointer, creating a bit of separation from her defender.
Her playmaking skills were on full display as she circled around to set up Samuelson for a wide-open three-pointer, which Samuelson converted with ease.
Katie L. Samuelson’s muscle memory and ability to self-correct were evident as she continued to score. Clark also showcased her vision on the court, feeding the ball into Wheeler for an easy bucket following a miscommunication by the Mystics’ defense. Clark’s ability to see all other nine players on the court made her an invaluable asset for the Fever.
The game continued with Clark pushing the pace, getting the ball ahead to Wheeler, who scored once again. Mitchell whipped the ball back to Samuelson, who then found Clark inside for Smith.
Smith, working against Edwards, drew a foul and managed to score a tough shot, earning an and-one opportunity.
The game also featured personal milestones for players like Chy Wallace, who recently learned she would represent Australia in the upcoming Summer Olympics—a dream come true for her. Meanwhile, Atkins showcased her defensive skills, resulting in a wild sequence that led to a bucket.
Clark’s brilliance shone through as she set up plays and created scoring opportunities for her teammates. She made a behind-the-back pass to Smith, who finished with style, highlighting Clark’s incredible playmaking ability. Defensively, Clark got her hands in the mix, coming up with a steal and setting up Wheeler, although the latter had the ball picked from behind.
As the game progressed, the Fever’s defense and Clark’s offensive prowess kept the pressure on the Mystics. Clark turned on the jets, driving to the rim with speed and accuracy. Later, she launched and hit a crucial three-pointer, keeping the Fever within striking distance.
With only a few minutes left in the game, the Fever mounted a furious comeback. Clark caught and shot a three-pointer off a well-executed play, bringing the Fever closer. Her defensive efforts paid off as she stole the ball in the backcourt and drew a foul, heading to the free-throw line.
The Fever’s relentless defense continued to force turnovers, leading to more scoring opportunities. Clark’s steal and subsequent foul sent her to the free-throw line again, narrowing the gap. The Fever capitalized on every chance, with Mitchell drawing a foul and making crucial free throws.
In the final moments, the Fever’s defense stood strong, but the Mystics managed to hold on. Despite Indiana’s aggressive push, Washington survived the late-game surge and secured the victory. The Fever’s effort and Clark’s outstanding performance gave them a fighting chance, but the Mystics ultimately emerged victorious.
