Indianapolis, IN – The WNBA season opener delivered all the fireworks fans craved and then some as the Indiana Fever unleashed a commanding 93-58 victory over the Chicago Sky at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. More than just a win, it was a statement – a powerful declaration from a Fever squad poised for greatness, spearheaded by a historic performance from Caitlin Clark and fueled by the rekindled rivalry with Angel Reese.
The atmosphere was electric, charged with anticipation for the new season and the highly publicized collegiate feud that has now seamlessly transitioned to the professional stage. From the opening tip, the Fever displayed a cohesion and intensity that left the Sky scrambling, ultimately securing their second-largest margin of victory in franchise history.
Clark’s Stellar Triple-Double and Historic Blocks
All eyes were on Caitlin Clark, last season’s runaway Rookie of the Year, and she certainly delivered. The phenom etched her name in the record books, recording her first triple-double of the 2025 WNBA season with a phenomenal 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. This incredible feat also tied her with WNBA legend Candace Parker for the third-most triple-doubles in league history with three, showcasing her all-around impact on the game.
But Clark’s brilliance didn’t stop there. Demonstrating her defensive growth, she tallied a career-high four blocks, a remarkable achievement for any player, let alone a point guard. This defensive prowess underscored a more complete game from Clark, proving she’s far more than just a prolific scorer and passer.
Boston’s Dominance and Bonner’s Milestone
While Clark captivated the crowd, Aliyah Boston quietly, yet forcefully, asserted her dominance in the paint. The rising star delivered a powerful double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds, adding five blocks of her own. Boston’s relentless work on the boards and her formidable presence as a rim protector were instrumental in the Fever’s defensive masterclass, holding the Sky to a mere 29% shooting from the field.
Adding another layer of history to the night was veteran DeWanna Bonner. The ageless forward ascended into third place on the WNBA’s all-time scoring list, surpassing Tina Thompson. With 7,489 career points and counting, Bonner’s remarkable longevity and consistent scoring ability were rightfully celebrated by the home crowd and her teammates, a testament to her enduring legacy in the league. Her acquisition in the offseason is already paying dividends, bringing championship experience and a veteran presence to this dynamic Fever roster.
The Clark-Reese Rivalry: A New Chapter
The most talked-about moment of the night, however, undoubtedly revolved around the intensifying Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese rivalry. In a fiery third-quarter exchange, Clark committed a hard foul on Reese, which, after review, was upgraded to a flagrant 1. The ensuing confrontation, which saw Angel Reese and Aliyah Boston each receive technical fouls, sent shockwaves through the arena and ignited social media.
While both players downplayed the incident post-game, it was clear that the competitive fire between these two stars is as intense as ever. Reese, who led the Sky with 12 points and 17 rebounds, showcased her tenacity on the boards, but the Sky as a whole struggled to find their offensive rhythm against a suffocating Fever defense. Ariel Atkins added 11 points for Chicago, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide of Indiana’s relentless attack.
Looking Ahead: A Season of Promise
This WNBA season opener was more than just a game; it was a powerful opening act for a Fever team with sky-high expectations. With Clark’s unparalleled playmaking, Boston’s growing dominance, and the veteran leadership of Bonner, the Indiana Fever are firmly establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The intensified rivalry with the Chicago Sky promises more must-watch basketball, ensuring that every matchup between these two teams will be appointment viewing for WNBA fans. The league’s 29th season is off to an explosive start, and the Fever-Sky saga is just beginning to unfold.
