Full Breakdown
Indiana Fever Stun Atlanta Dream to Advance to WNBA Semifinals
9/19/2025, 2:56:42 PM
Dramatic Game 3 Victory
The Indiana Fever achieved a remarkable upset in the 2025 WNBA playoffs by defeating the Atlanta Dream 87-85 in a thrilling Game 3, securing their first playoff series win since 2015. The Fever, seeded sixth, faced significant challenges throughout the season, including injuries to key players like Caitlin Clark, who was ruled out for the year. Despite these setbacks, Indiana demonstrated resilience, overcoming a five-point deficit in the final minutes to clinch the victory.
Key Moments and Performances
Trailing 85-80 after a three-pointer from Rhyne Howard with 2:32 remaining, the Fever closed the game on a 7-0 run. Kelsey Mitchell, who led all scorers with 24 points, initiated the comeback with a layup, followed by a crucial basket from Lexie Hull that narrowed the gap to one point. The decisive moment came when Aliyah Boston scored the go-ahead layup with just 7.4 seconds left, capitalizing on a broken play after a scramble for the ball. Odyssey Sims added a free throw to extend the lead, and Hull sealed the game with a steal on the Dream's final possession.
Boston finished the game with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, while Sims contributed 16 points and eight assists. The Fever's defense was pivotal, holding the Dream to just 12 points in the fourth quarter and forcing critical turnovers.
Atlanta Dream's Disappointment
The Dream, who entered the playoffs as the third seed with a franchise-record 30 wins, faced a disappointing end to their season. Despite a strong start and leading for much of the game, they struggled offensively in the second half, scoring only 29 points. Allisha Gray led Atlanta with 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Jordin Canada added 18 points and 10 assists. The Dream's inability to maintain their offensive momentum ultimately cost them the game.
Head coach Karl Smesko expressed disappointment in the team's performance, noting missed opportunities and a lack of execution in critical moments. "We had some empty possessions where we were kind of just staring at the ball rather than executing our offense," he said.
Official Statements & Responses
Fever head coach Stephanie White praised her team's resilience, stating, "This group has been through every situation imaginable. We knew we just had to keep it tight." Kelsey Mitchell highlighted the team's determination, saying, "We could have easily given up... but we didn’t." In contrast, Smesko acknowledged the Dream's shortcomings, emphasizing the need for better offensive execution in future playoff scenarios.
What's Next for the Fever
With this victory, the Indiana Fever advance to the semifinals, where they will face the second-seeded Las Vegas Aces, who narrowly defeated the Seattle Storm in their own Game 3. The Fever's semifinal series is set to begin on Sunday, September 21, 2025. The matchup presents a significant challenge for Indiana, as they aim to continue their surprising playoff run despite being heavily underdogged due to their injury-riddled roster.
The Fever's journey through adversity this season has been a testament to their grit and determination, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal showdown.
