WNBA Playoffs Breakdown: Kelsey Mitchell Powers the Fever While MVP A’ja Wilson Falters

WNBA Playoffs: Indiana Fever Shock the Aces, Minnesota Lynx Prove Their Mettle in Semifinal Openers

The opening games of the 2025 WNBA semifinals delivered exactly what fans had been craving: drama, surprise, breakout performances, and the stark reminder that in the postseason, reputations mean little once the ball tips off. On Sunday, the Indiana Fever stunned the defending champion Las Vegas Aces 89-73, while the Minnesota Lynx outlasted the Phoenix Mercury 82-69 in Minneapolis.

Two very different games, but the same clear message: the semifinals will not be a predictable ride for anyone.

Indiana Fever vs. Las Vegas Aces: A Statement Win

Few expected the Indiana Fever to come this far, and even fewer thought they would dominate the Aces on their home floor in Game 1. But that’s exactly what happened.

The story of the night belonged to Kelsey Mitchell, who erupted for a career playoff-high 34 points. Mitchell was aggressive from the opening possession, attacking off the dribble, knocking down perimeter jumpers, and coolly sinking deep threes. She finished 12-of-23 from the field and 4-of-6 from three-point range, numbers that would impress in any game but were even more striking against a defensive juggernaut like Las Vegas.

“I think what you all are seeing is just me trying to be a kid on the playground,” Mitchell said, smiling. That sense of freedom and confidence was obvious, as she carved up one of the league’s best defenses.

Mitchell’s dominance underscored how far she has come. She ended the regular season third in scoring at 20.2 points per game, but in Game 1 she looked every bit the MVP candidate — even while going head-to-head with the actual MVP, A’ja Wilson.

A’ja Wilson’s Rough Night

Just hours before tipoff, Wilson was honored with her fourth MVP award, cementing her place among the all-time greats. But the celebration quickly soured. Indiana’s defense smothered her inside, forcing Wilson into contested looks and refusing to give her the easy baskets she typically thrives on.

The final stat line: 6-for-22 shooting (27.2%), just one field goal after halftime, and four fouls that limited her effectiveness. It was a rare sight — Wilson visibly frustrated, unable to dictate the game’s rhythm, and ultimately watching as her team’s 12-game home winning streak evaporated.

The Aces now face a pivotal Game 2, where Wilson will have to bounce back if Las Vegas wants to avoid falling into a dangerous hole.

Odyssey Sims’ Redemption Story

While Mitchell stole the spotlight, Odyssey Sims provided the subplot that warmed every basketball fan’s heart. Waived by the Los Angeles Sparks in July, Sims signed with Indiana on a hardship contract just weeks ago. On Sunday, she looked like the missing piece to the Fever’s puzzle.

Sims scored 17 points (13 in the second half) with three assists, three steals, and just one turnover. Her ability to push the tempo, attack the rim, and pressure defensively gave Indiana exactly what they needed. From being without a team midseason to thriving in the postseason, Sims’ journey epitomizes resilience.

Minnesota Lynx vs. Phoenix Mercury: Grit Over Glamour

While the Fever delivered the shock of the day, the Lynx approached their semifinal with the steady confidence of a top seed. Yet it wasn’t easy.

The Phoenix Mercury’s Big Three — Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Copper, and Satou Sabally — came out firing, combining for 35 points in the first half. Minnesota trailed by seven at the break, and for a moment it looked as though Phoenix might pull off an upset.

Enter Courtney Williams.

Courtney Williams’ Historic Performance

Williams had been quiet in the Lynx’s first-round series, averaging just 8.8 points. But in Game 1, she delivered one of the most complete playoff performances in league history: 23 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and five steals.

That stat line put her in rare company — only four other players have ever recorded 20-5-5-5 in a WNBA playoff game: Breanna Stewart, Tamika Catchings, Sheryl Swoopes, and Alyssa Thomas.

“We never feel like we’re out of it,” Williams said. “We don’t even look at the scoreboard. We just focus on getting stops.” That mindset paid off as the Lynx turned the game around in the second half, suffocating the Mercury’s offense and closing with authority.

Minnesota’s Supporting Cast Steps Up

The Lynx’s “Big Three” — Williams, Napheesa Collier, and Kayla McBride — all played their part. Collier posted 18 points and nine rebounds, McBride added 21 points and four threes, and together they overwhelmed Phoenix down the stretch.

But perhaps the most unexpected boost came from Maria Kliundikova, who entered late in the third quarter. In just eight minutes, she snagged crucial rebounds, grabbed two steals, and provided the energy swing Minnesota needed. Her hustle set up a McBride three that gave the Lynx their first real momentum of the game.

“She was a game-changer for us,” Williams said. “When you sit most of the game and come in with that kind of impact, it shows mental toughness.”

Winners and Losers
Winners

Kelsey Mitchell (Fever): Looked like the MVP, notched 34 points, unstoppable all night.

Odyssey Sims (Fever): From being waived to becoming a postseason hero.

Courtney Williams (Lynx): Career-defining performance, joined elite playoff company.

Maria Kliundikova (Lynx): Bench spark that changed the game’s momentum.

Minnesota’s Big Three: Proved too balanced and resilient for Phoenix.

Donald Williams (Courtney’s dad): His energy courtside captured the joy of playoff basketball.

Losers

A’ja Wilson (Aces): On her MVP night, she couldn’t find her rhythm and looked mortal.

Jewell Loyd (Aces): Just three points off the bench; Las Vegas needs her scoring.

Phoenix’s Big Three: Strong start but faded badly in the second half.

Mercury’s 3-point shooting: Brutal 3-of-23 from deep, a fatal flaw for a team that lives and dies by the arc.

What’s Next

For Indiana, the challenge will be to keep momentum and prove Game 1 wasn’t just a fluke. Mitchell doesn’t need to score 34 every night, but she’ll need to stay aggressive while Sims and the supporting cast continue contributing.

For Las Vegas, it’s about regrouping. Wilson has carried the Aces all year; if she can’t dominate, the depth must step up — especially Loyd and Jackie Young.

Meanwhile, Minnesota has to feel good about their position. Their stars are rolling, their role players are confident, and coach Cheryl Reeve has them locked in defensively. Phoenix, however, needs answers — and fast. Fatigue from their first-round series may be real, but unless the Mercury rediscover their outside shooting, this could be a short series.

Final Thoughts

Sunday was a reminder of why playoff basketball is so compelling. In Indiana, a team that wasn’t supposed to be here is suddenly two wins away from the Finals. In Minnesota, a veteran squad showed why they earned the top seed by grinding down an opponent that had every reason to believe in themselves.

The Fever’s upset and the Lynx’s resilience combined to set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable semifinal round. And if Game 1s were any indication, fans should buckle up — the best is still ahead.