In a highly anticipated WNBA matchup that saw its two biggest stars sidelined, the Indiana Fever defeated the Chicago Sky 93-78 on Sunday, July 27, 2025. The game, played at the United Center in Chicago, drew an impressive attendance of 19,601 fans, despite the absence of Caitlin Clark for the Fever and Angel Reese for the Sky. Both teams were significantly impacted by injuries, with the Sky particularly depleted, missing five players including three starters, alongside Reese.
The Indiana Fever, now holding a 14-12 record, were propelled by a stellar performance from guard Kelsey Mitchell, who delivered a season-high 35 points. Mitchell was red-hot from beyond the arc, sinking seven three-pointers, showcasing her ability to step up in crucial moments. Her career-high stands at 38 points, achieved in 2019. Rookie Makayla Timpson also had a breakout game, scoring a career-high 14 points, while newly acquired Chloe Bibby made an immediate impact off the bench with eight points in her Fever debut. Aliyah Boston contributed a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, further solidifying Indiana’s effort. According to the Indianapolis Star and ESPN’s game recap, Mitchell’s offensive explosion was key to the Fever’s victory.
The game’s narrative saw the Fever establish a commanding lead early on, going up by as many as 16 points in the first half. However, the resilient Chicago Sky, despite their significant roster limitations, mounted a comeback in the third quarter, trimming Indiana’s lead down to just two points. The Fever, however, managed to regain control and pull away in the final period, securing the 93-78 win. The Sky’s scoring effort was led by Rachel Banham, who finished with 26 points, including six three-pointers. Kamilla Cardoso also posted a double-double for Chicago with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Yahoo Sports also highlighted the contributions of Banham and Cardoso for the Sky.
The highly anticipated individual matchup between rookie sensations Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese was unfortunately put on hold due to injuries. Caitlin Clark missed her fourth consecutive game for the Fever, sidelined by a right groin strain. The Fever confirmed there was no additional damage or injuries to her groin, but no timetable for her return has been set. Angel Reese was ruled out for the Sky due to a back injury. Their absences undoubtedly shifted the dynamic of the nationally televised contest, allowing other players to step into the spotlight.
This victory marks the third time the Indiana Fever have defeated the Chicago Sky this season, establishing a 3-0 lead in their regular-season series. The Fever previously secured wins against the Sky on May 17 (93-58) and June 7 (79-52). With this win, the Fever improved their standing to 14-12, placing them 8th in the overall WNBA standings as of July 27, 2025, and firmly in playoff contention. The Chicago Sky, conversely, fell to a 7-18 record, placing them 11th in the league. The Indiana Fever will look to continue their winning ways when they face the Phoenix Mercury next on Wednesday, July 30.
One response to “Kelsey Mitchell’s Season-High 35 Points Lead Indiana Fever Past Short-Handed Chicago Sky”
[…] In Clarkâs absence, the Fever (14-12) have found a rhythm, securing back-to-back victories. Their most recent triumph was a 93-78 win over the Chicago Sky, where guard Kelsey Mitchell delivered a spectacular performance. Mitchell scored a season-high 35 points, including seven three-pointers, to lead her team. She received strong support from Aliyah Boston, who posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, and rookie Makayla Timpson, who added a career-high 14 points, as noted by Digital Trends Today. […]