Las Vegas Aces edge Indiana Fever after Chelsea Gray buzzer-beaters
Chelsea Gray hit two dramatic buzzer-beating three-pointers to help the Las Vegas Aces overcome a 20-point deficit and secure an 86-84 overtime victory against the Indiana Fever.
The defending WNBA champions snatched the win in Indianapolis following late uncharacteristic errors from rookie standout Caitlin Clark.
Clark missed two crucial free throws with seven seconds remaining in regulation while her team led by three points.
That allowed Gray to sink her first last-gasp effort from beyond the arc and force an additional period.
Clark miscues prove costly
The drama continued deep into overtime when the Fever held a slender one-point advantage.
A crucial defensive stop by A’ja Wilson stripped the ball from Clark with just seven seconds left on the clock.
Gray capitalised immediately, draining another decisive three-pointer as the buzzer sounded to seal a remarkable comeback.
Wilson finished with 26 points and 13 rebounds to spearhead the visiting side.
Meanwhile, Jackie Young added 22 points, including a franchise-record 15 consecutive points bridging the first and second halves.
Fever falter despite Mitchell masterclass
Kelsey Mitchell top-scored for the hosts with 28 points, though she also missed a vital late free throw in regulation.
Aliyah Boston contributed heavily with 21 points and 12 rebounds for the Indiana franchise.
Despite a 20-point haul and eight assists, it proved a frustrating evening for the former Iowa standout, who recorded eight turnovers.
The hosts had looked in total control before the visitors mounted a sustained 15-0 run just before half-time to slash the deficit.
Courtside disruption halts play
The momentum shift was momentarily paused midway through the third quarter following a disruption in the crowd.
Play was halted for several minutes while security escorted individuals sitting opposite the away bench out of the arena.
The Fever subsequently confirmed that one fan was removed and chose not to return.
Young later addressed the incident with reporters following the conclusion of the game.
Someone had been chirping all night and had crossed the line.
The guard declined to elaborate further on the exact nature of the remarks.