The Fever Dominate in Game 2 of WNBA Playoffs
Introduction
The Indiana Fever were back in their home court, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, for Game 2 of the WNBA playoffs against the Atlanta Dream. After a tough loss in Game 1, the Fever were determined to bounce back and force a Game 3.
Key Details
The Fever came out strong, feeding off the energy of their home crowd. Led by veteran players like Candice Dupree and Erica Wheeler, the Fever dominated the first half, leading by 14 points at halftime. But it wasn't just the experienced players who stepped up, rookie Teaira McCowan had a career-high 19 points and 11 rebounds, proving to be a key player for the Fever.
Impact
The Fever's defense was also a major factor in their success, holding the Dream to just 60 points. The crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse was loud and supportive, decked out in "Now You Know" t-shirts, a nod to the team's motto for the playoffs. The Fever's convincing win showed that they are a force to be reckoned with and have the potential to make it to the next round of the playoffs.
About the People Mentioned
Teaira McCowan
**Teaira McCowan** is a professional basketball player who was born on September 28, 1996, in Brenham, Texas[2]. She plays the **center position** in the WNBA and is known for her rebounding prowess and defensive abilities. McCowan attended Mississippi State University, where she established herself as one of the most dominant rebounders in college basketball history[1]. During her senior year in 2018-19, she led the SEC in career rebounds and ranked second in NCAA Division I with 1,474 career rebounds[1]. Her exceptional college performance made her a highly sought-after prospect for the professional level. In the 2019 WNBA Draft, McCowan was selected in the first round as the third overall pick by the Indiana Fever[2]. She spent her first three seasons with Indiana from 2019 to 2021, establishing herself as a reliable presence in the league[2]. Following her time with the Fever, McCowan joined the Dallas Wings, where she played for four seasons from 2022 to 2025[2]. Beyond basketball, McCowan demonstrated athletic versatility during her high school years. She competed in volleyball and shot put, winning a silver medal at the Texas state championship as a senior[3]. This multi-sport background contributed to her overall athleticism and competitive drive. As of early 2026, McCowan's most recent professional affiliation was with the Dallas Wings, where she concluded her tenure in 2025[2]. Throughout her WNBA career, she has maintained her reputation as a skilled rebounder and defensive player, continuing the excellence she demonstrated during her college years at Mississippi State. Her journey from a multi-sport athlete in Texas to a professional basketball player represents a significant achievement in women's professional basketball.
About the Organizations Mentioned
Indiana Fever
The **Indiana Fever** is a professional women’s basketball team based in Indianapolis, Indiana, competing in the Eastern Conference of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Founded in 2000 as an expansion team, the Fever is affiliated with the NBA's Indiana Pacers and plays home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse under the ownership of Herb Simon[1][2]. The team’s early years were challenging, posting a poor 9–23 record in their inaugural season. However, the Fever built a strong foundation by drafting star forward **Tamika Catchings** in 2001, who became the franchise’s cornerstone despite missing her rookie season due to injury[1]. Catchings led the team to its first playoff appearance in 2002 and became one of the greatest players in WNBA history, earning multiple MVP awards and Olympic gold medals during her career with the Fever[2]. From 2005 to 2016, the Fever enjoyed a period of sustained success, making the playoffs 12 consecutive seasons. Under head coach Lin Dunn starting in 2008, they reached the WNBA Finals in 2009 and 2012, winning their first and only WNBA championship in 2012 by defeating the Minnesota Lynx. Catchings was named Finals MVP for her outstanding performance throughout the series[1][2]. Since 2017, the Fever have undergone a rebuilding phase, struggling to maintain their earlier competitiveness. However, recent seasons show signs of resurgence. In 2024, the Fever made the playoffs for the first time since 2016, finishing with a 20-20 record. The 2025 season marks their 26th in the league, led by head coach Stephanie White, with a solid 24-20 record and a 3rd place finish in the Eastern Conference[3][4]. Notably, the Fever set a WNBA record for highest resale ticket prices for a preseason game in 2025, reflecting growing fan interest and commercial success
