What started as a tune-up for the Indiana Fever quickly turned into a bold proclamation to the rest of the WNBA. The team didn’t just sweep through their preseason matchups—they sent a clear signal that they’re here to compete, and they’re not waiting for the regular season to get started. With a blend of star power, clutch performances, and deep roster contributions, the Fever wrapped up their third and final preseason game with an 81–76 win over the Atlanta Dream, sealing a perfect 3–0 run.
The lead-up to the game was anything but smooth. Just a day before tipoff, whispers of a possible injury to Caitlin Clark stirred concern across social media. A minor collision in practice had fans fearing the worst, especially with Clark already managing a previously strained leg. But when the team confirmed she would not only play but start, the tone shifted from anxious to electrified. And within minutes of the opening whistle, Clark erased any doubts. Her audacious 36-foot three-pointer stunned the crowd into silence before erupting in applause. She ended the half with 13 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds, all while nursing a bruised leg—proving once again that her range and resolve are unmatched.
However, the game wasn’t just about Clark. In the second quarter, she earned a technical foul after a heated reaction to a missed call. But in a show of leadership and camaraderie, veteran guard Sophie Cunningham stepped in to de-escalate the situation. That calming presence not only helped Clark regain her composure but also highlighted the tight-knit chemistry of the Fever’s roster. Unfortunately, Cunningham later exited the game with an ankle injury, putting her status for the season opener in doubt.
With Clark’s minutes limited and Cunningham sidelined, it was Lexie Hull who stepped into the spotlight. A relatively quiet presence throughout the preseason, Hull exploded in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 of her 14 points and injecting the team with fresh energy. Her sharp drives, mid-range finishes, and dogged defense anchored the Fever during crunch time. Head Coach Stephanie White praised Hull postgame, noting how her 3-on-3 basketball experience had sharpened her skills and elevated her confidence.
Indiana’s flawless preseason campaign was more than a string of wins—it was a blueprint for what’s to come. Each game showcased a different strength: post dominance against Brazil, perimeter shooting versus Washington, and bench resilience against Atlanta. This isn’t a one-dimensional team relying on a single star. It’s a growing, cohesive unit that knows how to adapt, support one another, and close out games. As they prepare to face the Chicago Sky on May 17, the Fever aren’t just building a team—they’re shaping a legacy.
