The Washington Mystics pulled off one of their most impressive performances of the season, rallying from behind to defeat the Indiana Fever 88-84 in Indianapolis. The win was even more remarkable given the Mystics’ reshaped roster and the Fever’s home-court advantage, though Indiana continues to struggle without its injured star Caitlin Clark.
Mystics’ Youth Shine Bright
Washington entered the matchup with a clear focus on development. Having traded away All-Star Brittney Sykes and rookie Aaliyah Edwards, the Mystics are betting on a youth-driven rebuild. That decision paid off in style against the Fever:
- Sonia Citron led the charge with 21 points, including clutch three-pointers that shifted the game’s momentum.
- Kiki Iriafen added a commanding 18 points and 12 rebounds, proving she can already be a cornerstone player for the franchise.
The Mystics erased a halftime deficit with a blistering 22-7 third-quarter run, turning the game into a defensive battle they controlled down the stretch.
Fever Falter Without Caitlin Clark
For Indiana, the story remains the same: life without Caitlin Clark has been tough. The rookie sensation has been sidelined since July 15 with a groin injury, and her absence has left the Fever struggling to find rhythm. They’ve now lost four of their last five games, a worrying trend for a team still eyeing playoff contention.
Kelsey Mitchell tried to shoulder the scoring load, but Washington’s defense clamped down late, holding Indiana to just 32% shooting in the final quarter. Without Clark’s playmaking and shot creation, the Fever often looks stagnant offensively.
What This Means Moving Forward
The Mystics’ victory is more than just a mid-season upset. It signals the potential of a young, hungry roster ready to build a new identity. General Manager Jamila Wideman’s bold moves suggest Washington isn’t chasing short-term wins but rather laying a foundation for sustainable success.
Meanwhile, the Fever face a different kind of challenge. Clark’s eventual return will certainly lift the team, but until then, Indiana must find ways to compete without being overly dependent on one player. If the supporting cast can’t step up, their playoff hopes may begin to fade.
Final Take
This game was a perfect example of how quickly the WNBA landscape can shift. The Mystics proved that resilience, defense, and young stars can turn a rebuilding year into something exciting. The Fever, on the other hand, were reminded that depth matters-and without Caitlin Clark, their margin for error is razor-thin.
Washington walks away with confidence. Indiana walks away with questions.
