The Indiana Fever opened their 2025 WNBA playoff run with a challenging Game 1 in Atlanta, falling 80-68 to the third-seeded Dream. This loss puts the Fever in a must-win situation for Game 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday to stay alive in the best-of-three series.
The Fever jumped out early, building a 15-6 lead thanks to a 9-0 run. However, Atlanta responded in the second quarter, outscoring Indiana 22-12 to take a 40-33 lead into halftime.
Fever Start Strong, But Atlanta Responds
Indiana opened the game with a 9-0 run, quickly taking a 15-6 lead. The Fever looked poised to control the pace early, but Atlanta adjusted defensively, outscoring Indiana 22-12 in the second quarter to take a 40-33 halftime lead. Despite a 7-0 run to start the third quarter, the Fever could not regain momentum, allowing the Dream to pull ahead in the fourth.
Shooting Struggles and Turnovers Hurt Fever
The Dream’s defense held the Fever to just 34.9% shooting overall, including a dismal 2-for-15 (13.3%) from three-point range. Indiana also committed 15 turnovers, limiting their ability to stay in the game despite strong individual performances.
Kelsey Mitchell Leads the Charge
All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana with 27 points, connecting on 9 of 18 shots and making 8 of 9 free throws. Odyssey Sims contributed 10 points, three assists, and two steals, while All-Star center Aliyah Boston added eight points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, though she fouled out with five fouls in 34 minutes of action.
Atlanta Stars Shine
Atlanta’s Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard powered the Dream to victory, each scoring 20 points. Gray added six rebounds, four assists, and three steals, while Howard tallied six boards and shot 4-for-10 from beyond the arc. The Dream’s balanced attack made it difficult for Indiana to mount a comeback.
Looking Ahead to Game 2
The series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 2 on Tuesday at 7:30 PM ET. The Fever must win at home to force a decisive Game 3. Fans can catch the game nationally on ESPN and locally on 93.5/107.5 The Fan.
The Indiana Fever now face a pivotal matchup to keep their playoff hopes alive after a challenging first game against the Atlanta Dream.
