Storm vs Fever Tonight: National Spotlight on a Crucial WNBA Clash
The Seattle Storm and Indiana Fever square off tonight, September 9, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET, with coverage on CBS Sports Network, streaming on the CBS Sports app, and worldwide access through WNBA League Pass. Regional broadcasts and radio commentary give fans additional ways to follow the action.
Both teams enter the contest locked in tight battles for WNBA playoff positioning. Indiana has already claimed two victories against Seattle this season, making this meeting a chance for the Storm to avoid a season sweep and regain momentum.
Caitlin Clark’s Status Adds Uncertainty
A major storyline tonight is the availability of Caitlin Clark, who remains questionable due to a lingering injury. Team medical staff will evaluate her during pregame warmups before making a final call. Clark’s presence has transformed Indiana basketball this season, driving attendance, merchandise sales, and national ratings. Her absence would shift both the energy in the arena and the Fever’s offensive strategy.
Should Clark be sidelined, Kelsey Mitchell becomes the primary perimeter weapon, while Aliyah Boston anchors the interior attack. Veteran Natasha Howard will be crucial in securing rebounds and balancing the frontcourt. Without Clark’s playmaking, Indiana will need to slow the pace and execute half-court sets with discipline.
Seattle Storm: Strengths and Approach
The Storm counter with Jewell Loyd, one of the WNBA’s most dangerous scorers. Seattle thrives when its defense fuels transition opportunities, allowing Loyd and her teammates to run the floor. Defensively, they emphasize pressure on ball-handlers and contested perimeter looks.
In earlier meetings, Seattle struggled to contain Boston inside and Clark on the perimeter. If Clark cannot suit up, the Storm may focus on collapsing the paint and forcing Indiana into contested jump shots. To win, they must limit second-chance points and hit three-pointers at an efficient clip.
Why This Game Matters in the Playoff Race
The Fever’s resilience is being tested. Winning without their star would strengthen their identity as a deep, versatile roster. For Seattle, this road game is about proving they can secure results under pressure and away from home. Every victory at this stage tightens or loosens the postseason race, and tiebreakers could play a role in playoff seeding.
Seattle coach Noelle Quinn has emphasized the importance of controlling the paint and avoiding turnovers. Indiana coach Christie Sides has focused on defensive intensity and collective scoring options in case Clark cannot play. Both teams understand that tonight’s outcome could shape their postseason path.
Where to Watch and Stream
Fans can follow tonight’s clash through several outlets:
- CBS Sports Network - National TV broadcast
- CBS Sports App - Official streaming
- WNBA League Pass - International and out-of-market streaming
- Regional affiliates - Local TV coverage in Indiana and Seattle
- Team radio streams - Available on official team websites
International fans can access the game via WNBA League Pass, which provides both live coverage and replay options.
Keys to Watch on the Court
Seattle Storm game plan:
- Force turnovers and run the floor in transition.
- Knock down perimeter shots to stretch Indiana’s defense.
- Limit offensive rebounds from Boston and Howard.
Indiana Fever game plan:
- Dominate inside with Aliyah Boston’s size and skill.
- Lean on Kelsey Mitchell’s scoring if Clark is absent.
- Defend the perimeter to contain Loyd and Seattle’s shooters.
Pregame Atmosphere and Final Outlook
Much of the pregame buzz surrounds Caitlin Clark’s availability. The official decision is expected just before tip-off, keeping fans and analysts on edge. Regardless of her status, tonight’s game will serve as a measuring stick for both franchises.
For Indiana, it’s a test of depth and resilience. For Seattle, it’s a chance to prove playoff readiness on hostile ground. The winner not only claims an important victory in the standings but also gains momentum in the final stretch of the regular season.
As the WNBA postseason approaches, games like this one highlight the intensity of the race and the rising profile of women’s basketball. Fans around the world will be tuning in to see whether the Fever can withstand adversity or if the Storm can strike back and stay in control of their playoff push.
