The Las Vegas Aces won 74-71 in another close matchup between the two teams. The Aces were able to capitalize on the crucial mistake of the Fever needing a 3-pointer and instead, they settled for a 2-point jump shot. Both teams battled for the boards, with Indiana finishing with more total rebounds than the Aces.
In my opinion, Indiana should have won this game having a better field goal percentage and 3-point percentage. One of the reasons the Aces won this game is because they outdid the Fever with assists, offensive rebounds, and fast break points. More importantly, points in the paint which is crucial to winning close games.
Candice Dupree didn't disappoint with 13 points and 4 rebounds. The Fever played great ball, they hustled for every possession however, they made a big mistake towards the end of the fourth quarter by not attempting the three. In the end, it cost them the game. I must say Teaira McCowan was the player of the game in opinion for the Fever. McCowan with 11 points and 12 rebounds with an incredible rebound play that will go down in history.
With 45.5 seconds remaining in the 4th quarter the Aces were up 70-68. McCowan hustled crashing the board in a crucial moment for the rebound and made a difficult lay-up to tie the game 70-70. The Fever had a foul to give and the Aces took the lead once again, -- A'ja Wilson with a quick lay-up. As a result, with 15.1 seconds left in the game, the Aces were up two 72-70 and Dupree was fouled with 8.5 seconds left.
Furthermore, Dupree made her first free throw but unfortunately missed the second.
“It just went long, the second one. I knew it when it left my hand. Gotta make it. They’re free throws, they’re easy. Get back in the gym, work on those. Just try to eliminate mistakes, keep us from being in a position where we have to rely on free throws. But that was on me.”
-Candice Dupree
Now, the score was 72-71. Time was running out on Indiana and Wilson of the Aces secured the game by making both of her free throws. Indiana had the chance to make a quick three, but couldn't find any open teammates in time and instead settled for a two.
The Fever have yet to claim a win against the Aces. They will have another opportunity this season to change that.
Watch their next game on Friday against the LA Sparks, right here in Indianapolis!