WNBA: Will the Solar set on the Fever, Clark within the first spherical?

The primary-round matchup between the No. 3-seed Connecticut Solar (28-12) and No. 6-seed Indiana Fever (20-20) appears to be like like a simple one for the Solar, as they’ve dominated in head-to-head video games in the course of the season, successful three of the 4 contests. Moreover, the Fever cooled off a bit following their scorching re-start after the Olympic break, successful simply two of their final six video games. Nonetheless, the Fever are unpredictable and depending on rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. Of their first playoff look since 2016, there’s no stress on them; they’ve already exceeded expectations. This may work within the Fever’s favor.

The Solar are the epitome of team-first

Picture by Mike Lawrie/Getty Photos

You already know the previous saying, “There’s no ‘I’ in group?” The Solar personify that. Out of all of the WNBA’s contenders, the Solar are the least flashy. Their defensive domination is unparalleled, as they’re first within the league in opponent subject objective proportion, opponent subject targets made and rebounds for the season. They’ve professional stars in Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, however their method, aura and skill to get others concerned makes all of the distinction in making a successful tradition. Thomas is second within the league in assists. With DiJonai Carrington and Marina Mabrey, they’ve probably the greatest defense-offense backcourt combos within the league.

Coming off the bench, Mabrey has been taking part in a number of the greatest basketball of her profession. The highlights of her keep in Connecticut thus far are 20-plus level performances in opposition to the Chicago Sky and Los Angeles Sparks. So, groups under .500. But when she will get scorching, the Fever are in hassle. Nonetheless, the toughest defensive matchups for Indiana are going to be Bonner and Thomas. Thomas is an elite passer, whereas Bonner is averaging 15 factors and 6 rebounds. To cease each, groups usually should go massive, sacrificing outdoors taking pictures. As a result of the Solar are in the course of the league in each 2- and 3-point subject targets, that plan has a 50/50 probability of succeeding.

The Fever fairytale continues?

Picture by Greg Fiume/Getty Photos

The Fever certainly went 1-3 in opposition to the Solar, however the three losses occurred in the beginning of the season, when the Fever have been engaged on their cohesion. Now, whereas nonetheless being below building, they’re a professional group and they’re harmful. The backcourt pairing of Clark and Kelsey Mitchell has been working wonders for this group. Clark’s contributions have been lined extensively, however they wouldn’t be potential with out Mitchell’s lights-out taking pictures performances. On the flip aspect, due to Clark, Mitchell has averaged probably the most 3-points makes an attempt in her profession. The taking pictures guard is changing these at a 40.2 p.c fee and, in consequence, is averaging 19.2 factors per sport.

As identified earlier, to neutralize Bonner and Thomas, the Fever must go massive, presumably by together with Temi Fagbenle, who can sustain with each the Connecticut stars, within the beginning rotation over Lexie Hull or NaLyssa Smith. Benching Hull will imply sacrificing long-distance taking pictures, in addition to perimeter protection. Benching Smith means shedding potential rebounds. Head coach Christie Sides has some onerous selections to make. On the courtroom, the gamers could commit some rookie errors, however that’s a part of the method of studying. And what higher lecturers to have than the skilled Solar?

No. 3 seed Connecticut Solar (28-12) vs. No. 6 seed Indiana Fever (20-20)

Sport 1: Indiana Fever at Connecticut Solar

When: Sunday, Sept. 22 at 3 p.m. ET

The place: Mohegan Solar Enviornment in Uncasville, CT

Find out how to watch: ABC

Sport 2: Indiana Fever at Connecticut Solar

When: Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m. ET

The place: Mohegan Solar Enviornment in Uncasville, CT

Find out how to watch: ESPN

Sport 3 (if crucial): Connecticut Solar at Indiana Fever

When: Friday, Sept. 27 (time TBD)

The place: Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN

Find out how to watch: ESPN2