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Caitlin Clark sends clear message after Fever's playoff win
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Indiana Fever had their backs against the wall on Tuesday night in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series against the Atlanta Dream.

Gainbridge Fieldhouse was buzzing, with Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton courtside, as the short-handed Fever — still without Caitlin Clark and several key contributors — fed off the crowd’s energy. Indiana took control after halftime, pulling away for a 77-60 victory that evened the series at one game apiece and forced a decisive Game 3 in Atlanta.

The victory marked Indiana’s first home playoff win since 2015. Just minutes after the game concluded, Clark took to social media to send a clear message about the impact of the fans as she ecstatically cheered on her team from the sideline.

Caitlin Clark has cool message after the Fever's win

Caitlin Clark has missed most of the WNBA season

It’s been a frustrating sophomore campaign in the WNBA for Caitlin Clark, who has battled injuries for much of the season. Still, she played well enough in the 13 games she appeared in to be named an All-Star captain.

Despite being sidelined with a groin injury since mid-July, Clark has remained the team’s biggest supporter — vocal on the sidelines, even with officials, as she works to energize her teammates. She’s been a constant presence alongside Sophie Cunningham, Chloe Bibby, Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald, who are all also dealing with season-ending injuries.

For the Fever players still on the court, the mindset has become clear: “We’re all we got, we’re all we need.” Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell continue to lead the charge. Boston tallied 15 points, five rebounds, and three assists, while Mitchell poured in a game-high 19 points on 6-for-13 shooting, including 4-of-8 from beyond the arc.

Indiana now heads back to Atlanta on Thursday night for a decisive Game 3 against the Dream, with a trip to the semifinals on the line. The showdown is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. EST on ESPN 2.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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