The Indiana Fever won the 2025 WNBA Commissioner's Cup by defeating the Minnesota Lynx 74-59 despite missing star player Caitlin Clark. The victory earned the Fever a $500,000 prize and demonstrated the team's depth beyond Clark. Following the win, Clark participated in celebratory events and made remarks about the WNBA. However, in Clark's much-anticipated return from injury on July 9, the Fever suffered a decisive 80-61 loss at home to the Golden State Valkyries. Veronica Burton led the Valkyries with a career-high five three-pointers and a stat line of 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, while first-time All-Star Kayla Thornton contributed 18 points and 8 rebounds. Clark was limited to 10 points in the defeat, highlighting the challenge the Fever face even with her back on the court. The Valkyries' dominant performance underscored their emergence as a strong team in the league.