The Indiana Fever defeated the Portland Fire 112-98 on Friday, July 31, marking their fifth consecutive game scoring over 100 points, a new WNBA record.
Why it matters: The Fever's historic scoring streak highlights their offensive prowess this season. With this victory, they solidify their position in the playoff race and showcase the talents of star players like Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell.
- The Fever are the first team in WNBA history to score over 100 points in five consecutive games.
- This win improves Indiana's record to 19-10, placing them fourth in the WNBA standings.
- Caitlin Clark's performance continues to set records, underscoring her impact on the game.
Driving the news: In the matchup at Portland's Moda Center, Caitlin Clark led the Fever with a triple-double, scoring 26 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists. This marked her first triple-double of the season and the fourth of her professional career.
- Clark now holds the record for the most triple-doubles by a guard in WNBA history.
- Kelsey Mitchell matched Clark's scoring output with 26 points, extending her streak to 13 consecutive games with at least 20 points.
- Six Fever players scored in double figures, demonstrating a balanced offensive attack.
State of play: The Fever's offensive strategy was evident throughout the game, as they outscored the Fire in every quarter. After a competitive first half, Indiana pulled away in the second half, maintaining a consistent lead.
- Indiana shot 52.9% from the field, including 34.5% from three-point range.
- Bridget Carleton led the Fire with 26 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Fever's strong performance.
- Aliyah Boston returned to action, contributing 14 points, nine rebounds, and six assists after a recent leg injury.
The big picture: The Fever's recent success has positioned them as serious contenders in the WNBA. Their ability to score over 100 points consistently reflects their offensive depth and strategic execution.
- This victory also avenged a previous loss to the Fire earlier in the season, where the Fever struggled.
- Indiana has now scored over 100 points in 13 games this season, setting another league record.
- The Fever's winning streak has revitalized their season, keeping them in contention for playoff positioning.
What they're saying: After the game, head coach Stephanie White praised Clark's performance, particularly her rebounding skills. "I didn't even recognize (she had a triple-double) until we got in the locker room. She can do all of those things," White said. "It was a really, really impressive effort from her tonight."
- Clark expressed her excitement about the team's performance, stating, "Everyone's just shooting the ball really well. It's super fun to be a part of and I know it's super fun for the fans to see."
- Mitchell, who tied Diana Taurasi for the second-longest streak of consecutive games with 20-plus points, highlighted the team's chemistry: "We just play really fast. Honestly, I think it's just everyone taking their shots with confidence."
By the numbers: The Fever's scoring statistics from the game reveal their offensive efficiency.
- Clark finished with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, achieving a triple-double.
- Mitchell also scored 26 points, tying for the game-high.
- Six Fever players scored in double figures: Monique Billings (15), Aliyah Boston (14), Sophie Cunningham (13), and Makayla Timpson (15).
- The Fever shot 36-of-68 from the field, including 10-of-29 from three-point range.
What's next: The Fever will look to continue their winning ways as they face the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday, August 2, at 1 p.m. ET. The Lynx currently hold the best record in the league, making this matchup a key test for Indiana.
- The Fever will aim to build on their recent momentum and secure a win against a formidable opponent.
- Fans can catch the game on ABC, with high expectations for another exciting performance from Clark and her teammates.
As the Fever continue their impressive run, they remain a team to watch in the WNBA playoffs, with aspirations for a championship run this season.