WNBA Big Wins: Fever Upset the Aces & Lynx Take Game 1 Over Mercury

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???? Indiana Fever Shock Las Vegas Aces in Semifinals

The Indiana Fever shocked many around the league with a commanding 89–73 win over the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of the WNBA Semifinals. It wasn’t just the score—they played like they knew they belonged.

Kelsey Mitchell was the story of the night, dropping a playoff-career high 34 points, including four 3-pointers. She set the tone early and kept up the pressure when it mattered.

Odyssey Sims stepped up with a strong supporting effort, scoring 17 points, and Natasha Howard landed a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

The Aces struggled to keep up from deep and couldn’t sustain pressure after the Fever went on an 11-0 run late in the third quarter to stretch their lead.

Significance:

This is a statement win—stealing a game in Las Vegas gives Indiana momentum and a psychological edge for the rest of the series.

The win is especially noteworthy given that A’ja Wilson, the league’s MVP, had an off night shooting, and the Fever exploited that vulnerability.

???? Lynx Dominate Game 1 vs Phoenix Mercury

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Lynx made their own loud statement in Game 1 of their semifinal matchup against the Phoenix Mercury, winning 82-69.

Courtney Williams led the charge with 23 points, providing the kind of production needed in the playoffs.

Kayla McBride added 21 points, and Napheesa Collier contributed 18 points and nine rebounds, anchoring both ends of the court.

The Lynx defense held Phoenix at bay, limiting their scoring runs and being particularly effective in transition and defensive rebounding.

Significance:

Winning Game 1 at home sets the tone for Minnesota’s path forward—home court advantage becomes less pressure when you come out with a win.

The balanced scoring is very promising; Lynx aren’t relying on just one player, and that depth could matter in the long haul.

???? What This Means Going Forward

Together, these wins by the Fever and Lynx show that momentum in the WNBA playoffs is built not only on star power but on depth, execution, and seizing opportunity.

The Fever, without Caitlin Clark (injured), are proving resilient. Their big win signals they aren’t just filler; they’re a real threat.

The Lynx, built with strong pieces around Collier and others, continue to look like one of the sturdiest squads when it matters.

What do you think of these wins? Which team(s) do you see making the Finals? Leave your thoughts below.