Indiana Fever Secure Overtime Victory Against Atlanta Dream

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Makayla Timpson delivered a standout performance by scoring a career-high 20 points, including the initial three field goals for Indiana in overtime. Her contribution was pivotal in the Fever’s 95-91 win over the Atlanta Dream on Sunday, ensuring their hold on fourth place in the WNBA standings.

Indiana (23-12) managed to fend off Atlanta (21-13) despite Allisha Gray’s impressive 32-point match, equaling her career best. The top four teams enjoy homecourt advantage in the playoffs’ first round. Kelsey Mitchell’s late layup, which came with only 13.6 seconds left in overtime, brought her total to 20 points for the game. This marks her 19th consecutive game accomplishing at least 20 points.

Caitlin Clark provided crucial support, scoring 26 points, including two free throws that extended Indiana’s lead to 93-91 after Atlanta closed the gap. She also contributed nine assists throughout the game.

Mitchell also made a significant impact with a 3-pointer that tied the game at 81-81 with 1:05 left in regulation. Atlanta’s attempts to regain the lead fell short as they missed three shots during their final possession before overtime.

Indiana’s Sophie Cunningham celebrated her 30th birthday on game day by putting the Fever ahead with a basket and a free throw, making the score 78-77. The Dream encountered setbacks before the match, with Jordin Canada unavailable due to illness, leaving Jaylen Sherrod to make her first career start in her third WNBA season. Additionally, Atlanta forward Brionna Jones was absent due to a left leg injury, with no set timeline for her return, according to Coach Karl Smesko, who expressed hope for her quick recovery.

The Dream faced challenges in the game, initially trailing 36-27 in the second period. Angel Reese sparked a comeback with 15 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, leading Atlanta’s 17-4 run to take a 44-40 lead by halftime.

Mitchell’s determination to reach the 20-point mark required overtime. Despite a slow start with only five points in the first half, she added two early baskets in the second half, although she picked up her third foul midway through the third period.

Looking ahead, Indiana Fever will visit Toronto on Tuesday night, while the Atlanta Dream head to Las Vegas.