The Indiana Fever‘s postseason run came to an end on Tuesday after a hard-fought 107-98 overtime loss to the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA semifinals.
Playing without several key players – including Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and four other sidelined teammates – the Fever’s injury troubles deepened during Game 5.
Top scorer Kelsey Mitchell exited the game in the third quarter due to injury, and All-Star Aliyah Boston fouled out before the start of overtime.
The depleted Fever squad couldn’t keep up with a dominant A’ja Wilson, who scored 35 points, and Jackie Young, who added 32. Their performances helped push Las Vegas into its third WNBA Finals appearance in four years.
After the game, Cunningham, who missed the playoffs due to a knee injury, shared a photo from the locker room – along with a determined message.
“us,” she posted. “can’t make this season up! so much to be proud of. you better believe we are coming for EVERYBODY next season.”
Free agency and contract uncertainty cloud the offseason
Before being sidelined with a torn MCL in August, Cunningham was having her most efficient year yet, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and hitting a career-best 43.2% from three-point range. She had earned a starting role in July and started 13 straight games before the injury.
Despite her vow to return stronger, Cunningham‘s future with the Fever is uncertain. She is set to enter free agency, along with many others across the league, as the WNBA’s current collective bargaining agreement approaches expiration.
Head coach Stephanie White praised the team’s resilience through a challenging season.
“I’m extremely grateful for every single one of them,” she said. “We know this is going to be an offseason full of change in the league, but what these women accomplished together, it’s a special story and I hope one day it’s told.”
Led by White, the Fever showed they could compete no matter who was on the court. And if Cunningham returns next season, they may be ready to write a new chapter.
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