Las Vegas, NV – In a highly anticipated WNBA showdown that captivated basketball fans worldwide, the Las Vegas Aces roared back to defeat the Indiana Fever 89-81 on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at a sold-out T-Mobile Arena. The reigning champions, the Aces, showcased their resilience, led by a masterful performance from A’ja Wilson, who demonstrated precisely why she is a two-time MVP. For the Indiana Fever, Aliyah Boston shone brightly, but Caitlin Clark grappled with her shooting touch, making for a challenging night for the rookie sensation.
The atmosphere in Las Vegas was electric, a testament to the surging popularity of the WNBA and the undeniable draw of talents like Clark and Wilson. Fans flocked to witness this clash of styles and star power, eager to see how the young Fever would stand up against the seasoned might of the Aces.
A Game of Runs: Aces Seize Control in the Fourth
The Indiana Fever started strong, exhibiting the offensive fluidity that has defined their promising season. Propelled by crisp passing and opportunistic scoring, they managed to build a double-digit lead in the first half. Aliyah Boston was a force to be reckoned with, scoring 18 of her game-high 26 points in the opening half, consistently finding ways to impact the game inside and out. Boston’s impressive performance also included 10 rebounds, marking her sixth double-double of the 2025 season and her 30th career double-double. Her synergy with Clark in the early stages was a highlight, as Clark dished out 7 assists before scoring her first points in the second quarter, eventually totaling 11 dimes for her own double-double.
However, the Las Vegas Aces, known for their championship pedigree, slowly but surely began to chip away at the Fever’s advantage. Despite a slow start for A’ja Wilson, who managed only 6 points in the first half, the Aces’ collective firepower and defensive intensity began to shift the momentum. Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray provided crucial offensive sparks, with Young contributing 19 points and Gray adding 18, orchestrating the Aces’ comeback with their veteran savvy.
The third quarter saw the Aces inch closer, setting the stage for a decisive final frame. Wilson found her rhythm, scoring 8 points in the third, matching Clark’s output for the quarter. The turning point arrived early in the fourth, as the Aces unleashed a devastating 11-2 run, part of a larger 16-2 surge extending from the end of the third. This offensive explosion gave the Aces their first lead since the opening minutes and they never looked back, asserting their dominance with clinical precision.
Clark’s Shooting Woes Continue, Boston Shines
For the Indiana Fever, while Boston delivered a stellar performance, the narrative around Caitlin Clark centered on her ongoing shooting struggles. After going 3-for-14 from the field in her previous game against the Golden State Valkyries, Clark again found it tough from beyond the arc, converting just 1 of 10 three-point attempts and finishing 7 of 20 overall for 19 points. Her struggles from deep have now seen her go 1-for-17 over her last two contests. Despite her difficulties scoring, Clark’s playmaking remained impactful, as evidenced by her 11 assists, showcasing her elite court vision. However, her 8 turnovers highlighted areas for improvement.
Kelsey Mitchell also provided a strong offensive outing for the Fever, adding 20 points and extending her double-digit scoring streak to 13 games. The Fever’s ability to compete in stretches, even with their star rookie facing challenges, speaks to the potential of their young roster.
Aces Back on Track, Fever Look Ahead
For the Las Vegas Aces, this 89-81 victory was more than just a win; it was a statement. Snapping a three-game losing streak, the Aces improved their record to 6-7, regaining crucial momentum as they push for a strong playoff seeding. Wilson’s final stat line of 24 points and 7 rebounds, despite her early shooting woes, underscored her ability to take over games when it matters most. The team’s overall shooting efficiency (45.1% from the field) and excellent free-throw shooting (90.5%) were key factors in their comeback.
The Indiana Fever (6-7) now face the task of regrouping as they continue their road trip against the Seattle Storm. Despite the loss, the performances of Boston and Mitchell, coupled with glimpses of Clark’s playmaking brilliance, offer a foundation for continued growth. The WNBA season is a marathon, and both teams will undoubtedly learn valuable lessons from this hard-fought contest.
This game reinforced the competitive spirit and star power that defines the WNBA, promising more thrilling matchups as the 2025 season unfolds. The battle between established champions and emerging contenders continues to be a captivating storyline for basketball enthusiasts worldwide.
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