Golden State Valkyries Pull Off Upset Win vs. Caitlin Clark’s Fever
The Golden State Valkyries delivered a statement win on Thursday night, defeating Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever 88-77 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. The victory marked a significant upset, as the Fever entered the game as heavy favorites.
The Valkyries showcased their recent momentum, winning their fourth game in their last five outings and improving their season record to 6-6. They also hold the distinction of being the fastest expansion franchise to reach five wins in their inaugural season. The loss dropped the Fever’s record to 6-6 as well, ending their two-game winning streak.
Caitlin Clark’s Struggles Highlight Tough Night for Fever
Much attention was on Indiana’s rookie sensation, Caitlin Clark, who finished the night with 11 points, marking her lowest scoring output of the season. Clark struggled significantly with her shooting efficiency, connecting on just 3-of-14 attempts from the field and failing to make a three-pointer (0-for-7) for only the second time in her young WNBA career. Despite the scoring struggles, she rounded out her stat line with 9 assists, 7 rebounds, 1 steal, and made all five of her free throws. However, she also recorded six turnovers, which continued to be a costly factor for the Fever in the game’s crucial moments.
The challenging performance came after Clark had posted back-to-back games of 20+ points, including a season-high 32 points just days prior. While she contributed in other areas, her inefficiency was a key storyline in Indiana’s 11-point loss.
Game Flow: Fever Lead Early Before Valkyries Dominate Late
The game saw the Indiana Fever control the lead for large stretches. After falling behind 7-2 early in the first quarter, the Fever responded with a dominant 14-0 run to take a 21-12 lead by the end of the first period. Indiana maintained its advantage through halftime, leading 44-38, and held a 59-55 edge going into the fourth quarter. At one point, the Fever held a lead as large as 13 points.
However, the Golden State Valkyries found their stride in the final period. They dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Fever 33-18 to erase the deficit and secure the victory.
Key Player Performances
While Clark had a difficult scoring night, other players stepped up:
For the Fever:
Aliyah Boston led Indiana with a strong performance, recording a game-high 17 points and 12 rebounds for a double-double. Foul trouble limited her minutes late in the fourth quarter after she picked up her fifth personal foul.
Kelsey Mitchell added 16 points.
Natasha Howard contributed 13 points.
The Fever struggled collectively from three-point range, making only 8 of 29 attempts.
For the Valkyries:
Kayla Thornton spearheaded Golden State’s balanced attack, leading the team with 16 points, including an efficient 5-of-8 performance from beyond the arc. She also added 6 rebounds.
Tiffany Hayes provided a significant spark off the bench, scoring 14 points and dishing out 5 assists. She also played tough defense against Clark at times.
Kate Martin was another key bench contributor with 9 points and 5 rebounds.
The Valkyries’ depth was a key factor, with their reserves outscoring the Fever bench 45-17.
Game Context
The game was played without Fever head coach Stephanie White, who missed the contest for personal reasons. Longtime assistant Austin Kelly served as acting head coach. The matchup itself was notably smooth, avoiding the physical altercations and officiating controversies that have surrounded some of Clark’s recent games, despite the recent national debate about how the WNBA’s biggest star is treated.
The Valkyries’ win over a highly-touted Fever team featuring Clark serves as a major statement for the expansion franchise as they continue to find their identity and build momentum in their inaugural season.
Final Score Breakdown:
End of 1Q: Fever 21, Valkyries 12
Halftime: Fever 44, Valkyries 38
End of 3Q: Fever 59, Valkyries 55
Final: Valkyries 88, Fever 77
