Following their dramatic 94–89 overtime victory over the Washington Mystics in a preseason matchup, the Indiana Fever took the podium for their postgame media availability. While the team celebrated the win, their tone was balanced — acknowledging both the bright spots and the areas in need of improvement as the regular season approaches.

Head Coach Christie Sides: “We Found a Way, But We’ve Got Work To Do”

Fever head coach Christie Sides opened the press conference with a mix of relief and honesty:

“I’m proud of the fight. That’s the kind of grit we want to see. But let’s be real — we didn’t execute at the level we’re capable of for much of the game.”

Sides noted that without Caitlin Clark in the lineup (rested for precautionary reasons), the team struggled at times to find rhythm offensively and communicate defensively.

“We have to be able to play clean basketball no matter who’s on the floor,” she said. “This league doesn’t give you many second chances — we got lucky tonight.”

Sophie Cunningham: “We’re Building Something Special”

Veteran Sophie Cunningham, who had a standout game with 21 points and 8 rebounds, brought fiery energy both on and off the court. When asked about her performance, she credited her mindset:

“Every time I step on the floor, I’m bringing the full bag. Defense, hustle, leadership — whatever this team needs.”

Cunningham emphasized that the team’s chemistry is growing and that this win, while messy, showed their potential:

“We stuck together. No Caitlin tonight, but that’s what good teams do — they find a way.”

Aliyah Boston: “We Can Be Even Better”

Second-year center and franchise cornerstone Aliyah Boston praised her teammates but also challenged the Fever to hold themselves to a higher standard:

“We’re happy to get the W, but we missed box outs, we lost some shooters, and that’s not who we are,” she said.

Boston finished the game with a near double-double and credited Sophie Cunningham’s leadership as a key factor down the stretch.

“She brought the fire. And we needed it.”

Team Embracing Depth, Even Without Clark

Multiple players and coaches addressed the absence of rookie star Caitlin Clark, reinforcing that the team is built to withstand those moments:

“We’re not one-dimensional,” said NaLyssa Smith. “Caitlin is a game-changer, but tonight showed we all have to step up.”

The Fever also praised contributions from bench players like Grace Berger, who logged important minutes and showed strong court awareness in overtime.

Looking Ahead

With just one preseason game remaining before the regular season tips off, the Fever say they’re focused on tightening up the fundamentals — particularly defensive rotations, communication, and closing out games without late-game lapses.

Coach Sides ended the media availability with a confident message:

“We’re not even close to where we’ll be. But we’re taking steps. And tonight was a big one.”