The Indiana Fever, grappling with a string of significant injuries while fighting for a playoff spot, are set for a challenging road test against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx on Sunday, August 24. This matchup is the second game between the two teams in just three days, offering a quick turnaround and a chance for redemption or dominance.
The game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. ET (6 p.m. CT) from the Target Center in Minneapolis, a venue where the Lynx have been nearly unbeatable this season, boasting a formidable 17-1 home record. The contest will be broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network.
On Friday, the two teams met in Indianapolis, where the Lynx (29-7) secured a hard-fought 95-90 victory over the Fever (19-17). The win was powered by a historic performance from Lynx center Jessica Shepard, who recorded the second triple-double in franchise history with 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists, according to USA TODAY. Despite the loss, the Fever demonstrated their offensive potential by shooting an impressive 65% from beyond the arc, a statistic noted by CBS Sports.
While the recent result favored Minnesota, Indiana has proven it can defeat the Lynx. On July 1, the Fever traveled to Minneapolis and upset the Lynx 74-59 to win their first-ever WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Championship, as reported by ESPN. That victory came even without their star rookie, a situation the team continues to navigate.
The Fever’s primary challenge remains their depleted roster. Rookie sensation Caitlin Clark will miss her 15th consecutive game due to a right groin injury that has sidelined her since July 15. The team’s injury woes are compounded by the season-ending injuries to guards Sophie Cunningham, Sydney Colson, and Aari McDonald. Additionally, forward Chloe Bibby is listed as out with a left knee injury, placing immense pressure on the remaining active players.
In stark contrast, the Lynx are expecting a major reinforcement. MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier, who has missed the last seven games with a right ankle sprain, is listed as probable for Sunday’s game, according to the official injury report on the team’s website. Her return would provide a significant boost to a team already positioned at the top of the WNBA standings.
The stakes are high for both sides. For the Fever, every game is critical as they battle to remain in playoff contention in a tight Eastern Conference race. A win on the road against the league’s best team would be a massive morale and standings boost. For the Lynx, the game is an opportunity to secure their 30th win of the season, welcome back their superstar, and solidify their dominance heading into the postseason.
Fans can watch the action live on CBS Sports Network, with streaming options available on Paramount+ and Fubo. The regular-season series will conclude on September 9 in Indiana.
