Kelsey Mitchell leads Fever past Aces in Caitlin Clark’s absence

Kelsey Mitchell led the charge with 21 points as the Indiana Fever secured an impressive 80-70 win over the Las Vegas Aces on Thursday night, despite being without star rookie Caitlin Clark, who remains sidelined with a groin injury and no set return date.

Mitchell got strong support from Natasha Howard, who posted 18 points and 13 rebounds, and Aliyah Boston, who added 13 points and 10 boards. Sophie Cunningham also chipped in with 15 points.



A’ja Wilson paced the Aces with 20 points, while Jackie Young scored 19 and NaLyssa Smith recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Indiana, now 13-12, snapped a two-game skid after back-to-back losses to defending champion New York. Howard took over in the third quarter with 11 points, helping the Fever to a 62-56 lead heading into the fourth.


The Fever defense stepped up late, holding Las Vegas scoreless over the final 94 seconds. Aari McDonald’s clutch 3-pointer and Cunningham’s free throws sealed the win.

Las Vegas (12-12) briefly led in the second quarter, but couldn’t maintain momentum, allowing Indiana to take control in the second half and finish strong on both ends.