The Indiana Fever’s thrilling match against Brazil was packed with exciting moments, but not all of them got the attention they deserved. From clutch plays to standout individual performances, this game had more than just the obvious highlights. Let’s dive into some key moments that fans may have missed but are crucial to understanding the Fever’s performance on the court.

Caitlin Clark’s Defensive Play in the First Half
While Caitlin Clark is mostly known for her incredible scoring, her defense in the first half was a huge factor in Indiana’s success. Late in the second quarter, Clark made a key steal at half-court, leading to a fast break and an assist that gave the Fever a crucial five-point lead. It wasn’t a flashy play, but it showed her all-around game and hustle.

Aliyah Boston’s Dominance on the Boards
Everyone has been talking about Boston’s scoring, but her rebounding in this game went under the radar. With Brazil pushing hard to close the gap, Boston grabbed a series of offensive and defensive boards in the fourth quarter that helped Indiana maintain possession and control the tempo. Her presence on the glass was a game-changer and pivotal in limiting Brazil’s second-chance opportunities.

The Fever’s Small Ball Lineup Sparked a Run
In the third quarter, Indiana coach utilized a small-ball lineup with Clark, Boston, and a mix of shooters to stretch Brazil’s defense. While many might have been focused on the bigger plays, this tactical move created mismatches, forcing Brazil to scramble defensively. It was during this stretch that the Fever managed a 10-2 run, expanding their lead.

Brazil’s Surprising Zone Defense Adjustment
As the Fever started pulling away, Brazil switched to a zone defense midway through the third quarter, catching Indiana off guard. Though the Fever managed to adjust, this defensive shift was a key moment that could have changed the game’s momentum. It forced the Fever to make quicker passes and rely on outside shooting, but they kept their composure, avoiding any major letdown.

Kelsey Mitchell’s Quiet Impact
Kelsey Mitchell may not have been the headline performer, but her ability to hit timely mid-range shots kept Brazil at bay during the second half. In the midst of a tight game, Mitchell scored 6 points in under three minutes, including two crucial jumpers in the final minutes of the third quarter that helped Indiana keep a comfortable lead heading into the fourth.

The Fever’s Defensive Switch in the Final 2 Minutes
With Brazil rallying in the final stretch, the Fever made a crucial defensive adjustment by switching to a 2-3 zone for the last two minutes of the game. This caught Brazil off guard and allowed Indiana to stifle any last-minute three-point attempts. While the offensive side of the ball got much of the attention, it was this defensive shift that ensured the win.

These moments were the true backbone of the Fever’s victory against Brazil. While they may not have made it onto every highlight reel, they were crucial to the team’s success and demonstrated the depth and strategy behind Indiana’s performance. As the Fever continue to build on their momentum, expect more key moments to emerge that will solidify their position as serious contenders.