LAS VEGAS — In a stunning performance that silenced critics and redefined expectations, the Indiana Fever surged to a decisive victory over the defending champion Las Vegas Aces, 91-78, despite being without their rookie superstar Caitlin Clark. Led by the dominant duo of Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, the Fever showcased resilience, teamwork, and the kind of grit that could redefine their season.
With Clark sidelined due to rest and load management, many anticipated a blowout loss for Indiana against an Aces team still packed with firepower. But instead, it was the Fever who delivered the early punches, setting a fierce tone from tipoff and never looking back. The energy was palpable as Boston and Mitchell took charge, proving Indiana can be formidable even without their most talked-about player.
Aliyah Boston, the 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year, put on a masterclass in the paint. She dominated both ends of the court, recording a season-high 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Her footwork, poise, and physicality were simply too much for the Aces’ interior defense, especially with A’ja Wilson battling double teams and fatigue throughout the contest.
“We wanted to make a statement,” Boston said postgame. “People think we’re just one player. We’re not. This team is built to win, and tonight we showed that.”
Kelsey Mitchell added to the Fever’s firepower with 27 points, 6 assists, and a barrage of timely three-pointers that kept Las Vegas at bay each time they mounted a comeback. Her leadership on the floor was evident as she directed the offense, slashed through defenders, and consistently found her rhythm in mid-range spots.
The Aces, missing key guard Chelsea Gray and still adjusting to changes in their rotation, struggled to find consistency. A’ja Wilson, their MVP-caliber forward, did her best to carry the load, finishing with 29 points and 10 rebounds. But with the Fever’s defense collapsing on her and the supporting cast going cold from beyond the arc, the Aces couldn’t keep pace.
“It’s tough without a full roster,” Wilson admitted. “But give Indiana credit. They came in hungry, and they earned this one.”
Indiana’s defense was just as impressive as their offense. Erica Wheeler and Kristy Wallace harassed the Aces’ guards throughout the night, creating turnovers and disrupting offensive sets. Their intensity set the tone, especially during a critical third-quarter stretch when the Fever extended their lead to double digits.
In the absence of Clark, Indiana looked more balanced and unpredictable. Boston became the focal point of the offense, allowing other players to find their rhythm without relying on Clark’s perimeter shooting and playmaking. It was a glimpse of the Fever’s depth — something that had been questioned in previous weeks.
Head coach Christie Sides praised her team’s effort and mentality. “I told them this morning, ‘No one expects you to win this game.’ That’s all they needed to hear. They went out and played for each other. This wasn’t about Caitlin being out — this was about us proving who we are as a team.”
The victory marks a turning point in the Fever’s season, which has been marred by inconsistency and growing pains. With this win, Indiana improves to 9-13 and keeps their playoff hopes alive. More importantly, it demonstrates their capacity to thrive even without their biggest star.
While Clark’s absence certainly drew headlines, the night belonged to Boston and Mitchell — two players who’ve been laying the groundwork for this team long before the national spotlight turned their way. Their chemistry, composure, and leadership are beginning to shine through at the perfect time.
For the Aces, it’s a reminder that every team is beatable, and that defending a title comes with constant challenges. They’ll need to regroup quickly as the league heats up heading into the second half of the season.
As for the Fever, the message is clear: Don’t sleep on Indiana. With or without Caitlin Clark, this team is learning how to win — and that might be their most dangerous trait of all.
