Indiana Fever Secure Fifth Straight Win Amid Caitlin Clark’s Absence

The Indiana Fever continued their remarkable form in the WNBA by securing their fifth consecutive victory, defeating the Seattle Storm 78-74 on Sunday, August 3, 2025. This win solidifies their position as one of the league’s top-performing teams, despite the ongoing absence of their star guard Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined for seven games due to a groin injury.

Howard and Boston Lead the Charge

Natasha Howard was the linchpin of the Fever’s offense, putting up 21 points while shooting an impressive 10-for-12 from the field. She also contributed five rebounds and five assists. Meanwhile, Aliyah Boston delivered a stellar double-double performance, scoring 16 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. The duo’s synergy was instrumental in overcoming the Storm’s defense.

Sophie Cunningham also made a significant impact with her sharp shooting, sinking four three-pointers and finishing with 17 points. Aari McDonald added nine points and nine assists, showcasing Indiana’s depth and versatility on the court. The Fever’s offensive efficiency was complemented by their defensive resilience, holding Seattle to just 74 points.

Seattle’s Struggles Continue

The Seattle Storm, despite a strong roster, have been inconsistent in recent weeks. This loss marked their second consecutive defeat, dropping their record to 16-13. Nneka Ogwumike led the Storm with 16 points but struggled with efficiency, shooting just 7-for-20 from the field. Gabby Williams contributed 12 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, but it was not enough to propel the Storm to victory.

Seattle’s recent form has been a cause for concern, with the team going 4-6 in their last 10 games. Their shooting percentage of 44.5% this season is respectable, but it pales in comparison to the Fever’s 45.6%, highlighting the offensive disparity between the two teams.

Caitlin Clark’s Absence and Impact

The Fever’s continued success without Caitlin Clark has been a testament to their depth and adaptability. Clark, who has played only 13 games this season due to multiple injuries, remains a polarizing figure in the WNBA. Averaging 16.5 points per game, her impact on and off the court has been a topic of debate.

Sophie Cunningham, one of Clark’s most vocal defenders, recently addressed critics who question her value to the league. Speaking on the “Show Me Something” podcast, Cunningham said, “It literally pisses me off when people are like, ‘She’s not the face of the league.’” She emphasized the increased scrutiny Clark faces due to her rising stardom and argued that her contributions to the Fever and the league are undeniable.

Clark herself has downplayed the criticism, focusing instead on her recovery and readiness for the playoffs. “This is professional basketball. It is what it is,” she remarked in a previous interview, reflecting her resilience in the face of challenges.

Playoff Implications

With a 17-12 record, the Fever are well-positioned for a strong playoff run. Their recent form, including a 7-3 record in their last 10 games, underscores their capability to compete at the highest level. The team’s balanced approach, with contributions from multiple players, has been a key factor in their success.

For the Storm, the road ahead is more uncertain. While they remain in playoff contention, their recent struggles highlight the need for greater consistency. Nneka Ogwumike and her teammates will need to regroup and address their weaknesses if they hope to make a deep postseason run.

As the WNBA season progresses, the Fever’s resilience and the Storm’s quest for stability will remain key storylines. With players like Clark and Ogwumike at the forefront, the league continues to showcase the talent and competitiveness that define women’s basketball.