Fever vs Dream WNBA Playoffs Game 3 Preview September 18
The WNBA Playoffs have reached their first do-or-die moment of the year and tonight’s matchup between the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream will decide who advances to the semifinals. With the series tied 1-1, everything comes down to Game 3 on September 18. For the Fever, this is a chance to prove their resilience after a season full of challenges and injuries. For the Dream, it is about defending home court and showing that their young roster is ready to make the leap into the upper tier of playoff contenders.
How the Series Reached Game 3
Game 1 in Atlanta set the tone when the Dream protected their home floor with a balanced effort. Rhyne Howard lit up the scoreboard with her three point shooting and Allisha Gray backed her up with tough defense and scoring at the rim. Indiana, dealing with a short rotation, struggled to find offensive consistency and turned the ball over at costly moments. The Dream’s fast start allowed them to maintain control throughout, sending a message that they were not intimidated by the Fever’s physicality.
Game 2 in Indiana flipped the script entirely. Backed by their fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Fever put together a dominant performance. Kelsey Mitchell came alive with 19 points, knocking down big triples to ignite the crowd. Aliyah Boston controlled the paint, grabbing rebounds and scoring efficiently inside. Natasha Howard added timely buckets and provided her trademark veteran leadership. The Dream, meanwhile, went cold from the perimeter. Howard and Gray both struggled to get clean looks against Indiana’s defense, and the Fever forced them into contested shots late in the shot clock. The result was a commanding 77-60 Indiana win that evened the series and forced tonight’s decider.
Key Injuries and Lineups
Indiana continues to deal with a staggering list of absences. Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, Aari McDonald, Chloe Bibby, Sydney Colson, and Damiris Dantas are all unavailable, leaving the Fever with a thin but determined core. That makes the roles of Mitchell, Boston, and Howard even more vital. Atlanta enters Game 3 relatively healthy and will lean on their depth to try and wear Indiana down.
Players Who Could Swing the Game
Kelsey Mitchell remains the go-to scorer for the Fever. Her ability to create her own shot, especially from deep, stretches defenses and forces the Dream to stay honest. Aliyah Boston has been Indiana’s foundation all season, and her matchup against Atlanta’s bigs is one of the keys to the game. Natasha Howard brings playoff experience and a steadying presence, and her contributions on both ends cannot be overlooked.
For Atlanta, Rhyne Howard must rediscover her Game 1 form if the Dream want to advance. Her scoring versatility makes her one of the toughest covers in the league. Allisha Gray provides grit, defense, and secondary scoring. Naz Hillmon’s rebounding will also be critical in a game that could easily be decided by second chance points.
The Matchup at a Glance
Offensively, Indiana thrives when they are able to move the ball and get Mitchell going early. If she finds her rhythm, the Fever’s spacing improves dramatically and allows Boston to operate in the post. Atlanta’s focus will be on pressuring the perimeter, switching effectively on screens, and forcing the Fever into rushed possessions. On the other end, the Dream want to push pace, move the ball quickly, and let Howard and Gray attack before Indiana sets its defense.
The rebounding battle could be decisive. Boston’s presence inside gives Indiana an edge, but Hillmon and Cheyenne Parker are relentless on the glass for Atlanta. If the Dream control the boards, they can limit Indiana’s second chances and fuel their transition attack.
Why This Game Matters
The stakes are massive. For Indiana, winning despite so many injuries would be a statement about their toughness and culture. It would also give their younger players valuable playoff experience on a big stage. For Atlanta, it is about validating their growth as a franchise. They have built toward this moment, and protecting home court in Game 3 would show that they are ready to belong among the league’s best.
Fan Atmosphere and Playoff Energy
The energy tonight will be electric. Atlanta fans are known for bringing noise and passion, and with elimination on the line, the building will be buzzing from tipoff. Fever supporters have shown their pride all season, and their team has thrived on feeding off that energy. Even on the road, Indiana’s resilience could translate into momentum if they get off to a strong start. Expect a playoff atmosphere where every shot, every rebound, and every whistle matters.
What to Expect from Game 3
Look for Indiana to test Atlanta early by going inside to Boston and spacing the floor with Mitchell. If they can hit a few early threes, it will stretch the Dream’s defense and give them options. Atlanta will likely respond by running Howard off screens and pushing the pace to generate easier looks. Gray’s ability to slash to the basket could open up kick-out opportunities for shooters.
The first quarter should set the tone. If the Fever establish their defense and slow the game down, they can frustrate Atlanta into mistakes. If the Dream come out firing and feed off the crowd, Indiana may have to play catch-up. Role players will be critical, and a clutch shot or defensive stop from someone like Kristy Wallace or Lexie Hull could swing the game.
Predictions
This game has the makings of a classic. The Dream’s health and home court give them an advantage, but the Fever’s fight and confidence after Game 2 cannot be ignored. Expect a close, physical battle with both teams refusing to give an inch. Whether it comes down to a Howard three or a Mitchell drive, fans should be ready for late drama.
FAQs About Fever vs Dream Game 3
Q: When is the Fever vs Dream Game 3?
A: Game 3 takes place on September 18, 2025, in Atlanta as part of the first round of the WNBA Playoffs.
Q: Why is this game so important?
A: With the series tied 1-1, the winner advances to the semifinals while the loser’s season ends.
Q: Who are the key players to watch?
A: Indiana’s Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, and Natasha Howard; Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, and Naz Hillmon.
Q: What is the biggest factor in the game?
A: Rebounding and perimeter shooting. Controlling the glass and knocking down threes will likely determine who advances.
