WNBA icon Sue Bird shared her thoughts on the Indiana Fever’s iconic performance since the season’s return, with the team securing back-to-back wins. The Summer Olympics break provided a rush of opportunities to regroup and strengthen the team’s chemistry, leading to back-to-back wins over the Phoenix Mercury and Seattle Storm, both of whom had the above records. 500. Bird credits the craze’s recent success with the fast pace of play built by Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell. She believes that their high quality reach on the field has the potential to surpass their opponents, regardless of their size, physical ability or experience.
Drawing on his extensive WNBA experience, Bird emphasized that a fast-paced game can be a game changer. She commented, “Rhythm of play can overcome physicality, size and even experience”, and rewarded both Clark and Mitchell for their relentless drive and improving synergy with each match. Bird, whose opinion is highly respected in the basketball community due to her illustration career, highlighted the duo’s ability to dominate while constantly pressuring their opponents
Following Bird’s comments, Indiana Fever responded via their official social media, understanding the importance of speed in their strategy. The team’s social media accounts successfully echoed Bird’s sentiment with the message, “It’s about speed,” reinforcing the strategy that has been central to their recent success.
Currently, Caitlin Clark is making waves in her rookie season, leading all WNBA rookies with averages of 17.8 points and 8.3 assists per game. She also topped the league in assists per game, demonstrating her ability to create. Meanwhile, her backcourt partner Kelsey Mitchell, despite slightly seeing her points and minutes, is having one of her most productive seasons, shooting a career-high 45% vs. yard. Together, they have positioned the Fever as strong contenders for their first playoff appearance since 2016.
As the Indiana Fever prepare for their upcoming match against the Minnesota Lynx on August 24, they have their sights set on a victory that extends their winning streak, with Clark and Mitchell continuing to lead the way. The team’s focus on speed remains a key element of their strategy as they move toward postseason success.
