The Indiana Fever let an important victory slip away against the Los Angeles Sparks. In a game without Caitlin Clark on the court, the team lost to their Western Conference rivals in the final minute, 89-87.
Despite this and two dominant victories over the Minnesota Lynx and Las Vegas Aces and their first trophy since 2012, the Commissioner’s Cup, the defeat leaves Indiana with a 9-9 record.
At home, Gainbridge Fieldhouse saw Aliyah Boston come close to sealing overtime but miss her shot at the last second, leaving the Sparks with the victory. However, there is nothing to reproach her for, she had a magnificent night: she scored 23 points and was the game’s top scorer. She also contributed 12 rebounds and four assists.
Natasha Howard with 21 points and Kelsey Mitchell with 19 were the top scorers behind Boston. Azura Stevens with 21 points and 12 rebounds and Kelsey Plum with 20 points, were the top scorers for the Sparks.
A word from their coach
Stephanie White, coach of the Fever, spoke to the press and did not hesitate to defend Boston, stating that she “had a really good look at the end,” but that some shots simply did not go in.
In addition, White took responsibility for not ensuring that the Fever performed even better in this situation, something she understands is her duty as a coach:
We’re looking more about execution. I didn’t feel like our execution was all that good at the end. I felt like in our reset timeout, it wasn’t very good either.
In addition, the 48-year-old coach stated that “That’s on us – continuing to make sure that we are going over that as often as possible when we have our practice time and making sure that we’re sharp in those areas.“
Fortunately, Indiana will be able to rest for a few days before hosting the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday. And judging by White’s comments, they will need to come prepared.
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