### Indiana Fever Breaks 16-Game Losing Streak Against Las Vegas Aces The Indiana Fever achieved a significant milestone by defeating the Las Vegas Aces 81-54 on July 4, 2025, marking their first victory over the Aces since 2019. This win is particularly notable as it ended a 16-game losing streak against the Aces, a team that has historically dominated the Fever. The Fever's success came despite the absence of their star player, Caitlin Clark, who is sidelined due to an injury. Kelsey Mitchell led the scoring with 25 points, while Aliyah Boston contributed 20 points, showcasing the team's depth and resilience in Clark's absence [https://www.aol.com/fever-beat-las-vegas-81-014618708.html][https://www.nbcsports.com/wnba/news/fever-beat-las-vegas-81-54-and-snap-a-16-game-losing-streak-against-the-aces]. ### Breakdown of the Fever's Victory 1. **Key Players and Performance**: - Kelsey Mitchell scored 25 points and provided six assists. - Aliyah Boston added 20 points and seven rebounds. - Natasha Howard recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. - The Fever's defense was instrumental, limiting the Aces to just 54 points and forcing them to shoot 26.2% from the field [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/kelsey_mitchell_fever_cruise_past_anemic_aces/s1_17054_42412326]. 2. **Game Dynamics**: - The Fever never trailed in the game, establishing a commanding lead early on. - The Aces struggled offensively, with A'ja Wilson scoring 29 points but receiving little support from her teammates, as no other player scored more than six points [https://www.ktnv.com/sports/las-vegas-aces/las-vegas-aces-take-on-indiana-fever-while-caitlin-clark-is-out-due-to-injury]. - The Fever's defense was particularly effective in the fourth quarter, where the Aces managed only seven points [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/kelsey_mitchell_fever_cruise_past_anemic_aces/s1_17054_42412326]. 3. **Historical Context**: - This victory is the Fever's first against the Aces since August 27, 2019, highlighting a significant turnaround for the franchise [https://www.themirror.com/sport/basketball/caitlin-clark-fever-aces-wnba-1244241]. - The win also reflects the Fever's recent form, having won three consecutive games, including a victory in the Commissioner's Cup final against the Minnesota Lynx [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/kelsey_mitchell_fever_cruise_past_anemic_aces/s1_17054_42412326]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Scoring Breakdown**: - Kelsey Mitchell: 25 points, 6 assists - Aliyah Boston: 20 points, 7 rebounds - Natasha Howard: 11 points, 10 rebounds - A'ja Wilson (Aces): 29 points, but limited support from teammates [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/kelsey_mitchell_fever_cruise_past_anemic_aces/s1_17054_42412326]. - **Shooting Statistics**: - Fever: 81 points on 26.2% shooting from the field. - Aces: 54 points, with a particularly poor performance in the fourth quarter [https://www.nbcsports.com/wnba/news/fever-beat-las-vegas-81-54-and-snap-a-16-game-losing-streak-against-the-aces]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Fever The Indiana Fever's victory over the Las Vegas Aces represents a pivotal moment in their season, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level even without their star player, Caitlin Clark. This win not only breaks a long-standing losing streak but also demonstrates the team's potential to challenge for a playoff spot as they continue to build momentum. 1. **Significant Win**: The Fever's first victory over the Aces since 2019. 2. **Key Performers**: Mitchell and Boston stepped up in Clark's absence. 3. **Defensive Dominance**: The Fever's defense was crucial in limiting the Aces' scoring. This victory could serve as a catalyst for the Fever as they aim to solidify their position in the WNBA standings [https://www.aol.com/fever-beat-las-vegas-81-014618708.html][https://www.nbcsports.com/wnba/news/fever-beat-las-vegas-81-54-and-snap-a-16-game-losing-streak-against-the-aces].