Washington Mystics Defeat Indiana Fever in First Game Without Star Caitlin Clark

The Indiana Fever suffered an 83-77 loss to the Washington Mystics in their first game without star guard Caitlin Clark, who is sidelined with a left quad strain expected to keep her out for at least two weeks. Brittney Sykes led the Mystics with 21 points and nine rebounds, supported by Kiki Iriafen's 16 points and Sonia Citron's 13, helping Washington improve to a 3-3 record. The Fever, now 2-3, struggled offensively without Clark's playmaking, shooting 39.7% from the field and 23.8% from three, while veterans like DeWanna Bonner, who scored 21 points, and Sydney Colson, who had four points and three assists, attempted to fill the void. Indiana's defensive issues were exposed as they allowed 48 points in the paint, with key players Aliyah Boston and Damiris Dantas fouling out, putting pressure on coach Stephanie White to adjust strategies. Despite the setback, Fever veterans demonstrated resilience and contributed significantly, suggesting potential for the team to adapt during Clark's absence. The Mystics will next face the New York Liberty, while the Fever prepare to host the Connecticut Sun and later face Washington again without Clark.