Kelsey Mitchell labelled the Indiana Fever as “unbelievable” and “resilient” during their win against the Las Vegas Aces.

The Fever were underdogs heading into the game with the likes of Caitlin Clark, Aari McDonald, Chloe Bibby and Sophie Cunningham all sidelined, but they secured an 89-73 win in the first of their best-of-five semi-final series.

Mitchell led the way for Indiana as she scored a playoff career-high of 34 points, shooting four from six beyond the arc, while also registering three assists and three steals.

It was just the Aces’ second loss in their last 20 games and their heaviest playoff defeat since game three of the 2022 WNBA finals.

Mitchell was quick to praise her team-mates after they stole home-court advantage from Las Vegas.

“Our group was just, it was unbelievable,” said Mitchell.

Kelsey. Mitchell. pic.twitter.com/SMxbtsTknB

— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) September 21, 2025

“We were resilient. They went on a run at the end of the [first] quarter, and I think that was big for us because we didn't fold. At any given time, we can and we won't, so I'm proud of our group.

“I just try to keep it about basketball. I think what you guys see is just me trying to just be a kid in the playground, I guess.”

Aces head coach Becky Hammon added: “Clearly, we had no answer for Mitchell. She made every freaking shot, it seemed like she had a hot night, and we let her get going.

“They played with a greater sense of urgency. We couldn't catch up with their pace. [We were] Ultra, ultra stagnant [offensively].”