NaLyssa Smith delivered an outstanding performance with 21 points and nine rebounds, while Caitlin Clark contributed 16 points and seven assists, propelling the Indiana Fever to a 91-79 victory over the Atlanta Dream.
This thrilling matchup took place on Friday night at State Farm Arena, drawing an unprecedented crowd of 17,575 spectators, setting a new franchise record for single-game home attendance for Atlanta.
This record-breaking attendance surpassed the previous record of 11,609 fans, which was set during the team’s inaugural game against the Detroit Shock in 2008 at Philips Arena.
The decision to host the game at the Atlanta Hawks’ home arena was prompted by the exceptionally high ticket demand to see Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 draft pick, in action. Normally, the Dream plays at the Gateway Center Arena in College Park, which has a seating capacity of only 3,500.
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The highly anticipated game, however, suffered a setback with the announcement that Rhyne Howard, Atlanta’s top pick in 2022, would be sidelined due to a lower leg injury.
Indiana seized the momentum early, scoring a season-high 35 points in the first quarter alone, which helped them establish a solid 10-point lead by shooting an impressive 70% from the field.
The Fever’s offensive prowess continued into the third quarter, where Clark sank her fourth three-pointer of the night during an 11-3 run, pushing Indiana’s lead to 71-60. This run concluded with the Fever leading 79-62, setting the stage for a comfortable cruise through the final quarter.
Kelsey Mitchell also played a pivotal role in the victory, adding 18 points, while Aliyah Boston notched a double-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks.
Katie Lou Samuelson contributed 10 points off the bench, helping Indiana (7-10) secure its fourth consecutive win.
For Atlanta (6-8), Tina Charles was the standout, scoring a season-high 24 points in her 37th career 20-point game. Allisha Gray added 19 points, and Haley Jones chipped in with 12 points.
In light of the successful turnout and electric atmosphere at this game, it has been decided that Atlanta’s next home game against Indiana, scheduled for August 26, will also be held at State Farm Arena, promising another exciting basketball event.
