In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Natasha Howard delivered a standout performance for the Indiana Fever, securing an efficient double-double in their 80-70 triumph over the Las Vegas Aces on Thursday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The power forward, a three-time WNBA champion and the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, contributed 18 points and 13 rebounds, including five offensive boards, in a commanding 30-minute showing. Her efficiency was remarkable, shooting 6-of-9 from the field and sinking a rare three-pointer, while also adding three steals without a single turnover. Howard’s performance was pivotal in securing a crucial season-series tiebreaker for the Fever (13-12) against the Aces (12-12), marking the first time in franchise history that Indiana have won back-to-back games against Las Vegas.
Howard’s impact was most pronounced in the third quarter, where she scored 11 of her 18 points, helping the Fever erase a halftime deficit to take a 62-56 lead into the final period. Her ability to read the Aces’ defensive tendencies allowed her to power through contact, drawing a team-high seven free-throw attempts and converting five. Beyond her scoring, Howard’s rebounding prowess created second-chance opportunities, with her five offensive rebounds leading to additional possessions that proved critical in maintaining Indiana’s momentum. Her defensive contributions, including three steals, underscored her philosophy that “our defense gets our offense going,” a mindset that fueled the Fever’s ability to limit the Aces to just two points in a decisive four-minute stretch in the fourth quarter.
The absence of star guard Caitlin Clark, sidelined by a groin injury, placed additional responsibility on Howard and her teammates, and they rose to the occasion. Alongside Howard’s heroics, Kelsey Mitchell led the Fever with 21 points, while Aliyah Boston also recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. The team’s collective effort was evident as all five starters made at least one three-pointer, a first for the season, with Howard’s long-range contribution adding a surprising dimension to her game. This balanced attack, coupled with a defensive intensity that held the Aces’ high-powered offence in check, showcased Indiana’s depth and resilience, even without their All-Star rookie.
Howard’s performance was a testament to her veteran leadership and versatility, qualities that have made her a cornerstone for the Fever since signing as a free agent in February 2025. Having previously played for Indiana in 2014 and 2015, her return has been marked by a renewed focus on setting the tone defensively, a role she embraced emphatically against the Aces. Her ability to finish through contact, clean the boards, and contribute on both ends of the court highlighted why the Fever’s restructured front office prioritised her acquisition. As Howard herself noted, her synergy with teammates—described as “chirping” back and forth—fostered a cohesive unit that executed under pressure, a promising sign for a team aiming to solidify their playoff positioning.
This victory not only bolstered the Fever’s standing in the tightly contested WNBA playoff race but also sent a statement about their potential as a dangerous team when firing on all cylinders. With Howard leading the charge, Indiana demonstrated they can compete with elite teams like the Aces, who were led by A’ja Wilson’s 20 points and Jackie Young’s 19. As the Fever prepare for their next challenge against the Chicago Sky, Howard’s efficient double-double serves as a reminder of her enduring impact and the team’s growing cohesion. With time running out in the regular season, performances like this could be the catalyst for Indiana to transform their flashes of brilliance into consistent success.
