The [Indiana Fever](https://www.espn.com/wnba/team/_/name/ind/indiana-fever) faced their first challenge without their star, Caitlin Clark, following her recent addition to the team.
The absence of Clark, who will be out for at least two weeks due to an injury, was felt in the game against the [Washington Mystics](https://www.espn.com/wnba/team/_/name/wsh/washington-mystics).
The game, played in Baltimore, marked the WNBA’s first encounter in the city, with the Mystics as hosts at the CFG Bank Arena.
The final result was a loss for the Fever, with a score of 83-77, which left them with a 2-3 record for the season.
I think this was a blow to us.
Sophie Cunningham
The team, which generated championship expectations after its moves in free agency, underperformed. They recorded a low field goal percentage (39.7%) and three-point percentage (23.8%), as well as a higher number of turnovers (16) compared to assists (15).We took an early punch, which is humbling, because it shows where we need to be.
Kelsey Mitchell
Without Clark to drive the pace, the team didn’t score any points on the fast break, something that used to be a key feature of their game.
The difference in the team’s performance with and without Clark on the court is notable: they average 107.5 points per 100 possessions with her, compared to 87.7 without her. Sydney Colson, who replaced Clark, scored 4 points, with 3 assists and 3 turnovers in 31 minutes. DeWanna Bonner led the team with 21 points. However, Mitchell and Aliyah Boston, other key figures, struggled to find their rhythm. Coach Stephanie White attributed the offensive struggles to a lack of execution against Washington’s physical defense.The defense also had problems, allowing 48 points in the paint and struggling to stop the players without committing fouls. Brittney Sykes, from Washington, stood out with 21 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, while Kiki Iriafen contributed 16 points.Feeling comfortable with our off-ball actions continues to be a growth process for us.
Stephanie White
Clark, who accompanied the team to Baltimore, was present on the bench, offering his support and receiving feedback.I think they got four to five trays just because of our poor shot selection.
Stephanie White
The match was played in a full stadium, and Clark’s absence is seen as a growth opportunity for her and the team.
Clark, who was selected to the All-WNBA first team and finished fourth in the MVP voting in her rookie season, will miss at least three more games.I think it will make us better in the short and long term.
Sophie Cunningham
