The Indiana Fever pulled off a stunning upset against the Atlanta Dream on Thursday night, securing an 81-76 victory in a game that saw Caitlin Clark’s remarkable 140-game streak of making at least one three-pointer come to an end. Clark, known for her prolific long-range shooting, went 0-for-5 from beyond the arc, marking her first game without a three-pointer since January 13, 2022, a span of 1,225 days. This unexpected development added an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating contest.
Natasha Howard led the Fever’s offensive charge, dropping 26 points to power Indiana to victory. The Fever’s success wasn’t solely reliant on Howard’s performance, however; Kelsey Mitchell’s crucial three-pointer put Indiana ahead late in the game, and a key layup by Aliyah Boston, assisted by Clark, solidified their lead. Despite Clark’s off night from three, she still contributed significantly with 11 points and 6 assists. The addition of Sophie Cunningham, playing in her first game after recovering from a right ankle sprain, further bolstered the Fever’s efforts, adding 9 points to the team’s total.
On the opposing side, Rhyne Howard paced the Dream with 24 points, but her efforts ultimately proved insufficient against the Fever’s determined comeback. The Dream, playing in the significantly larger State Farm Arena, which was sold out for the occasion, saw their two-game series against the Fever split after their win on Tuesday. The game’s atmosphere was electric, with a packed house witnessing a thrilling back-and-forth contest.
This game highlights the ever-shifting dynamics of the WNBA and the unpredictable nature of even the most dominant streaks. While Clark’s three-point streak may be over, her overall impact on the game remains undeniable, and her performance, despite the absence of her signature long-range shots, showcased her versatility and playmaking abilities. The Fever’s victory serves as a testament to their team depth and their ability to overcome adversity, making for a memorable night in Atlanta.
