Indiana Fever Stuns Atlanta Dream in Nail-Biting WNBA Playoff
COLLEGE PARK, Ga. — In an exciting playoff clash, the Indiana Fever edged out the Atlanta Dream 87-85 on Thursday night. Aliyah Boston scored the game-winning layup just 7.4 seconds before the final whistle, paving the way for the Fever to move into the WNBA semifinals.
Despite missing star player Caitlin Clark due to injury, the sixth-seeded Fever managed to finish the game with a thrilling 7-0 run. This victory marks their first playoff series win since 2015, setting them up for a matchup against the second-seeded Las Vegas team on Sunday.
Boston’s pivotal layup came after Brionna Jones fell while trying to grab a loose ball. This bucket gave Indiana an 86-85 lead—their first since they were ahead 33-30 in the second quarter.
Tension filled the court in the dying moments as Rhyne Howard struggled with inbounding the ball. Lexie Hull swooped in, stealing the pass from Jones. Indiana’s Odyssey Sims stepped up at the free-throw line, converting 1 of 2 attempts, giving Atlanta one last chance. However, Jones’ desperate three-pointer missed, sealing Indiana’s victory.
Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 24 points, while Boston added 14 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. Sims contributed 16 points and eight assists, and Natasha Howard chipped in with 12 points.
For Atlanta, Allisha Gray shined with a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds. Jordin Canada also impressed, recording 18 points and 10 assists. Rhyne Howard and Jones contributed 16 and 12 points, respectively.
Atlanta struggled in their earlier game, scoring only 60 points in a 17-point loss. They matched that score with over six minutes remaining in the third quarter this time.
The Dream has not won a playoff series since 2016, leaving them eager for a turnaround.
As the WNBA playoffs continue, fans can expect more nail-biting moments and unexpected twists. For further updates on the league, check out the AP WNBA page here.
In today’s competitive sports landscape, teams must adapt and overcome challenges. The Fever’s resilience this season, especially without their star player, showcases the unpredictability of playoff games in the WNBA. Each match not only highlights individual talents but also the power of teamwork and strategy in high-stakes situations.
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