Image Source: ESPN
Fever vs Lynx produced one of the most surprising results of the WNBA’s final week. Indiana overwhelmed Minnesota 96-77 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, while the Lynx made an early decision to protect their key players rather than chase a comeback.
Minnesota entered the matchup with an opportunity to clinch the No. 1 playoff seed through a victory. Instead, the Lynx fell behind by 29 points and trailed 57-34 at halftime. Coach Cheryl Reeve then kept her regular starters on the bench for the entire second half, effectively conceding the game and prioritizing rest before the postseason.
Fever vs Lynx: Indiana Delivers a Powerful Statement
The Fever capitalized immediately. Indiana scored 31 points in the opening quarter and maintained control throughout the night, creating separation with aggressive offense and improved defensive energy.
Caitlin Clark led the Fever with 27 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and four steals. The performance offered another reminder of her ability to influence every part of the game, particularly when Indiana’s offense is moving with confidence.
Kelsey Mitchell added 20 points, extending her WNBA record to 27 consecutive games with at least 20 points. Aliyah Boston also broke out of a recent slump, contributing 17 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Clark said Indiana can be “scary when we’re clicking,” while emphasizing that consistency will be vital during the playoffs. The Fever’s latest win guaranteed that they will finish no lower than sixth in the postseason standings.
- Caitlin Clark: 27 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and four steals
- Kelsey Mitchell: 20 points in her 27th straight 20-point game
- Aliyah Boston: 17 points and seven rebounds
- Indiana score: 96 points
- Minnesota score: 77 points
Minnesota Lynx Clinch No. 1 Seed Despite Ugly Loss
The Lynx’s defeat initially left their top-seed hopes unresolved. That changed later Tuesday when the Portland Fire defeated the Golden State Valkyries 90-82 in overtime. The result officially secured Minnesota the No. 1 seed, even though the team had lost four of its past five games.
That late development softened the effect of the loss in the standings, but it did little to ease concerns about Minnesota’s form. The Lynx were unable to establish the defensive identity that had powered their success throughout the season.
Napheesa Collier described the performance as “embarrassing” and said the team had failed to execute the goals it had recently established for the postseason. Collier scored nine points, while Courtney Williams finished with two points and Kayla McBride was held scoreless.
Chloe Bibby provided a bright spot from the bench, leading Minnesota with 15 points. The Lynx reserves also helped narrow the deficit after halftime, earning praise from Collier for their effort despite the difficult circumstances.
Olivia Miles Injury Adds Another Concern
Rookie standout Olivia Miles was scratched roughly 90 minutes before tipoff because of a left calf injury. Miles, who leads Minnesota in points and assists and is expected to win Rookie of the Year, was listed as questionable before trainers evaluated her.
Reeve said Miles will probably be another game-time decision when the teams meet again Thursday in Minneapolis. Her availability could be especially important as the Lynx attempt to regain rhythm before the playoffs.
What Comes Next for Both Teams?
The Fever and Lynx will meet again Thursday, giving both teams a quick opportunity to respond. Indiana will look to build on its offensive breakthrough and maintain its place in the crowded middle of the playoff bracket.
Minnesota, meanwhile, has already secured the most valuable prize in the regular season: home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Still, the team must address its defensive lapses and rediscover its intensity before the postseason begins.
Reeve said she was not overly concerned about playoff seeding, calling the Lynx a strong road team. However, the rematch will show whether Minnesota can turn its disappointment into a sharper, more physical performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Fever vs Lynx game?
The Indiana Fever defeated the Minnesota Lynx 96-77 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Tuesday.
Did the Lynx still clinch the No. 1 seed?
Yes. Minnesota clinched the WNBA’s top playoff seed after the Portland Fire defeated the Golden State Valkyries in overtime later that night.
How did Caitlin Clark perform?
Caitlin Clark recorded 27 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and four steals in Indiana’s convincing win.
Why did the Lynx rest their starters?
Minnesota trailed by 23 points at halftime, so Cheryl Reeve chose to protect her regular starters and prioritize rest ahead of the playoffs.
