MINNEAPOLIS, MN – In a stunning display of defensive prowess and team resilience, the Indiana Fever, playing without their marquee star Caitlin Clark, dethroned the league-leading Minnesota Lynx 74-59 in the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup final. The victory, secured on the Lynx’s home court at the Target Center, marks a historic first Commissioner’s Cup championship for the Fever, defying all odds and solidifying their status as a legitimate contender.
The narrative leading into this high-stakes contest was dominated by the Minnesota Lynx’s seemingly unassailable record. Boasting a league-best 14-2 overall and a perfect 8-0 at home, the Lynx were widely favored to clinch their second consecutive Commissioner’s Cup. However, the Indiana Fever had other plans, executing a game plan that proved to be a masterclass in defensive lockdown, particularly against a Lynx offense renowned for its efficiency and scoring power.
The game began as many expected, with the Lynx roaring out of the gate. Fueled by their fervent home crowd, Minnesota established an early 13-point lead, showcasing the offensive fluidity that has defined their season. Yet, this early surge was merely the calm before the Fever’s defensive storm. With a collective intensity that stifled the Lynx’s rhythm, Indiana embarked on a breathtaking 18-0 run to close out the first half, holding the Lynx scoreless for the final 8:13 of the second quarter. This monumental shift in momentum saw the Fever seize a 32-27 lead at halftime, a lead they would never relinquish.
At the heart of the Fever’s triumphant performance was the exceptional play of forward Natasha Howard. Named the unanimous Commissioner’s Cup MVP, Howard delivered a dominant stat line of 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists, anchoring both ends of the floor. Her relentless effort, particularly on defense, was instrumental in neutralizing Lynx MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier, who was held to a season-low 12 points on inefficient shooting and uncharacteristic turnovers. Howard’s leadership and tenacity set the tone for a Fever squad that bought into a defensive-first mentality.
Beyond Howard’s heroics, the Fever showcased a balanced attack with five players scoring in double figures. Aliyah Boston contributed a robust 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Kelsey Mitchell, Sophie Cunningham, and Aari McDonald each added 12 points. Cunningham, in particular, hit a crucial fourth-quarter three-pointer that extinguished any lingering hopes of a Lynx comeback. This collective effort highlighted the depth and versatility of the Indiana roster, proving they are far more than a one-player team, even without their injured superstar.
Speaking of absences, the Fever’s victory was made even more remarkable by the absence of their sensational rookie, Caitlin Clark. Sidelined for her third consecutive game due to a strained groin, Clark’s presence was sorely missed by fans and analysts alike, yet her teammates rose to the occasion. This win, achieved without their offensive engine, will undoubtedly inject a massive dose of confidence into the Fever as they navigate the remainder of the WNBA season.
The statistical disparities tell the story of Indiana’s defensive masterclass. The Lynx, typically a high-octane offensive unit, were limited to a season-low 59 points and an abysmal 34.9% shooting from the field. Their usually potent three-point attack was also shut down, converting just 4 of 16 attempts (25%). The Fever’s disciplined defense forced 16 turnovers from the Lynx, converting them into crucial points.
This inaugural Commissioner’s Cup title for the Indiana Fever comes with a significant $500,000 prize pool, to be split among the players, with Natasha Howard receiving an additional $5,000 for her MVP performance. The win also ensures that no team has yet to win back-to-back Commissioner’s Cup titles, adding another layer of historical significance to Indiana’s upset.
In a curious turn of events during halftime, beloved acrobatic performer “Red Panda” (Rong “Krystal” Niu) suffered a fall from her unicycle, requiring medical attention and casting a momentary pall over the proceedings. The incident served as a reminder of the unexpected twists and turns that can occur even off the court.
As the WNBA season progresses, the Indiana Fever’s Commissioner’s Cup victory will undoubtedly serve as a turning point. It’s a testament to their improved defensive identity and the collective strength of their roster. While the Minnesota Lynx will surely regroup, this upset loss at home highlights the competitive depth of the league and signals that the Fever, even without Caitlin Clark, are a force to be reckoned with. The Commissioner’s Cup may not count towards the regular season standings, but the momentum and confidence gained from this historic triumph could prove invaluable for the Indiana Fever.
