In what is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2025 WNBA season, the Indiana Fever faced off against the newly-established yet star-studded Golden State Valkyries. Held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the clash featured fan-favorite Caitlin Clark, emerging veterans like Kayla Thornton, and a building narrative between two teams that could define the league’s next era.
Whether you’re checking the Fever schedule, following player performances, or trying to figure out where to watch Indiana Fever vs Golden State Valkyries, this article breaks down every key moment, standout stat, and storyline you need to know.
Game Overview – A Battle of Momentum and Mental Toughness
Final Score
Indiana Fever 89 – 85 Golden State Valkyries
The tightly contested match saw multiple lead changes, intense defensive pressure, and late-game heroics. The Fever’s home crowd made a difference, energizing the roster when the Valkyries threatened to steal the win late in the fourth.
Indiana Fever Game Highlights and Key Players
Caitlin Clark’s Performance
- Points: 26
- Assists: 9
- Rebounds: 4
- 3PT FG: 4-of-8
Caitlin Clark continues to justify the hype with her best all-around game of the season. She controlled the tempo, hit clutch threes, and found open teammates when the Valkyries doubled her.
Other Fever Standouts
Kelsey Mitchell: 13 PTS, 2 STL
Aliyah Boston: 18 PTS, 12 REB (double-double)
NaLyssa Smith: 14 PTS, 8 REB, 3 BLK
Golden State Valkyries – Star Power and Growing Chemistry
Kayla Thornton’s Impact
- Points: 17
- Rebounds: 7
- Steals: 3
Thornton was key in keeping the Valkyries within reach, especially in the second quarter where she scored 10 of her 17. Her hustle and perimeter defense also limited Mitchell’s open looks.
Valkyries Roster Breakdown
- Skylar Diggins-Smith: 21 PTS, 5 AST
- Chelsea Gray: 14 PTS, 6 AST
- Ruthy Hebard: 10 PTS, 9 REB
The Valkyries’ issue wasn’t talent—it was late-game execution. Two shot clock violations and 4 missed free throws in the final minutes cost them.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
| Quarter | Fever | Valkyries |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 24 | 20 |
| 2nd | 18 | 22 |
| 3rd | 23 | 20 |
| 4th | 24 | 23 |
The third quarter was a turning point. Fever adjusted defensively, forcing 6 Valkyries turnovers and converting them into 9 points.
Defensive Tactics & Coaching
Fever Coach Christie Sides went to a 2-3 zone late in the third to slow Valkyries’ pace.
- Valkyries Coach Becky Hammon used a full-court press in the final 2 minutes that nearly turned the game around.
These chess moves added to the matchup’s intensity and showcased the coaching talent in the modern WNBA.
Crowd, Coverage & Viewership
Where to Watch Fever vs Valkyries
- TV Broadcast: ESPN2, WNBA League Pass
- Streaming: Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV
- Next Match: Check Indiana Fever schedule and Valkyries schedule on WNBA.com
Attendance & Social Media Impact
- Attendance: 15,200 (Sellout)
- Top Trending Hashtags: #FeverValkyries, #WNBA2025, #ClarkVsThornton
Comparison – Fever vs Valkyries: Key Stat Matchup
| Category | Indiana Fever | Golden State Valkyries |
|---|---|---|
| FG% | 46% | 44% |
| 3PT% | 38% | 33% |
| Assists | 21 | 19 |
| Turnovers | 12 | 15 |
| Rebounds | 39 | 37 |
Fever edged out Golden State in nearly every stat except bench scoring.
What This Game Means for Both Teams
Indiana Fever are starting to gel around Clark and Boston’s synergy. Their playoff hopes are alive and climbing.
Golden State Valkyries, as a new franchise, have elite talent but still need time to find rhythm and cohesion. This game proves they can compete with the league’s top teams.
FAQs – Indiana Fever vs Golden State Valkyries
Q: What was the final score of the Fever vs Valkyries game?
A: Indiana Fever 89 – 85 Golden State Valkyries
Q: Where can I watch the replay?
A: WNBA League Pass, ESPN app, or Hulu + Live TV (check availability)
Q: Who were the top performers?
A: Caitlin Clark (26 PTS), Aliyah Boston (18 PTS, 12 REB), Kayla Thornton (17 PTS)
Q: What’s next on the Indiana Fever schedule?
A: Fever travel to face the Las Vegas Aces on Friday night.
Q: Are the Valkyries a new team?
A: Yes, the Golden State Valkyries are a 2025 WNBA expansion franchise based in San Francisco.
A Defining Game in the 2025 WNBA Season
This was more than just a regular-season clash—it was a glimpse into the WNBA’s future. Fever vs Valkyries is already shaping up to be a headline rivalry, and players like Caitlin Clark and Kayla Thornton are making sure fans will be watching every meeting.
Whether you’re following Valhalla’s newest team or Indiana’s rebuilding story, this matchup gave us a reason to believe that women’s basketball has never been more competitive, marketable, or electrifying.
Stay tuned as the WNBA 2025 season heats up. Next stop: Aces vs Fever—another potential blockbuster in the making.
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