WNBA Playoffs: Caitlin Clark powers Fever to sweep Dream; Lynx eliminate Mystics

Why this one matters

Tuesday night delivered the defining moments of the 2026 WNBA postseason opening round, and both road favorites refused to let their series reach a deciding third game. In Atlanta and Minneapolis, championship composure triumphed over elimination desperation.

At Gateway Center Arena, Caitlin Clark orchestrated another postseason masterclass. The rookie sensation delivered 24 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds as the Indiana Fever held off a furious fourth-quarter charge from the Atlanta Dream to secure an 87-81 victory. Alongside her, Kelsey Mitchell poured in 22 points, including back-to-back corner triples in the final two minutes, sending Indiana into the WNBA semifinals for the first time since 2015.

Lynx demonstrate championship pedigree

Meanwhile at Target Center, the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx left nothing to chance against the Washington Mystics. Napheesa Collier dominated the interior with 26 points and nine rebounds, setting the physical tone from the opening quarter.

Cheryl Reeve’s squad dismantled Washington 85-73 behind suffocating team defense that forced 17 turnovers. Courtney Williams added 16 points and seven assists, ensuring the Mystics never trimmed the deficit inside six points during the second half. Both Indiana and Minnesota close out their series with 2-0 sweeps and earn crucial rest before the semifinal round begins.

The numbers that tell the story

• Final scores: Fever 87-81 Dream; Lynx 85-73 Mystics.
• Series results: Indiana wins 2-0; Minnesota wins 2-0.
• Clark milestone: Clark recorded her second consecutive playoff double-double with 24 points and 11 assists.
• Semifinal drought ended: Indiana reaches the WNBA final four for the first time in 11 years.
• Wednesday night slate: Round 1 continues with Dallas at Las Vegas (Aces lead 1-0) and New York at Golden State (Liberty lead 1-0).