The Indiana Fever’s president, Kelly Krauskopf, expressed frustration following the team’s 95-90 loss to the Minnesota Lynx at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday night, pointing to players’ distraction over Kelsey Mitchell’s MVP nomination as a key factor in the defeat. The loss dropped the Fever to 19-17, jeopardizing their playoff position as they risk slipping to seventh in the WNBA standings.
Krauskopf, addressing the media post-game, didn’t hold back. “Our focus should be on securing a playoff spot, not celebrating individual accolades,” she said. “Kelsey’s MVP nomination is great, but it’s clear some players let that hype distract them from what matters most—winning games.” The Fever, without stars Caitlin Clark, Sydney Colson, and Sophie Cunningham due to injuries, leaned heavily on Mitchell, who scored 27 points, and Lexie Hull, who added a career-high 23. Despite a hot start, hitting nine of their first 12 three-pointers, Indiana’s defense collapsed in the third quarter, allowing Minnesota to dominate with a 32-17 scoring edge.
The Lynx, led by Kayla McBride’s 29 points and Jessica Shepard’s 22, capitalized on Indiana’s lapses, securing a crucial victory to bolster their league-leading 28-7 record. Krauskopf’s comments sparked debate, with some questioning whether the blame was fair given the team’s injury challenges. Head coach Stephanie White, however, focused on resilience, praising the team’s effort but acknowledging defensive shortcomings.
Mitchell, visibly emotional, appreciated her teammates’ support, evident in their pre-game MVP shirts, but emphasized collective goals. “We’re fighting for the playoffs,” she said. “That’s bigger than any award.” With eight games left, the Fever face Minnesota again Sunday, aiming to refocus and secure a postseason berth.
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