Mystics Shakes Up Plans for High Stakes Clash with Caitlin Clark and Indiana Fever

The Washington Mystics (13-26) confront a critical do-or-die scenario in their season finale on Thursday night against the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever (20-19). As one of three teams contending for the final playoff berth, the Mystics must secure a victory over the Fever and rely on a loss by the 14-25 Atlanta Dream to the Chicago Sky to clinch their postseason spot. With profound playoff implications at stake and a showdown against the league’s most compelling team, the Mystics have made a significant alteration for Thursday’s game. They have shifted the matchup from their usual home at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington D.C. to the Capital One Arena, home of the Washington Wizards, to capitalize on the primetime spotlight.

“We know DC will be LOUD for our final matchup of the regular season…Will you be?!?!?” — Washington Mystics (@WashMystics) September 19, 2024

Despite a season that has not unfolded as anticipated, the Mystics have a chance to reset their fortunes with a playoff berth. Conversely, the Fever, one of the league’s most formidable teams post-Olympic break, have won nine of their last 13 games and secured a playoff spot for the first time since 2016. Rookie of the Year frontrunner Caitlin Clark, along with Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston, poses a significant challenge for the Mystics as they strive to extend their season.