The Indiana Fever entered their September 23, 2025, shootaround in Las Vegas with a sharp focus and a growing sense of belief. Ahead of Game 2 of their semifinal series against the Las Vegas Aces, head coach Stephanie White and guard Lexie Hull spoke with the media, offering insights into the team’s mindset, adjustments, and the chemistry that has fueled their playoff surge.

Lexie Hull, who has blossomed into a crucial two-way player during the Fever’s postseason run, reflected on how the team’s preparation has been anchored in composure. She emphasized that the Fever weren’t approaching the moment with intimidation, even against the defending champions. Instead, the message inside the locker room has been one of confidence: stick to the game plan, communicate on defense, and trust each other.

Hull discussed her defensive assignments, which have been central to Indiana’s strategy. Facing Las Vegas means handling A’ja Wilson’s dominance in the paint while also keeping guards like Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young from finding rhythm. Hull noted that defense for Indiana isn’t about one player—it’s about five moving as one unit, with heavy reliance on rotations and help-side pressure. She pointed out that communication has been a strength, especially with Aliyah Boston anchoring the interior.

On offense, Hull acknowledged that the Fever’s balance has been their greatest weapon. Kelsey Mitchell’s explosive scoring, Aliyah Boston’s steady inside presence, and contributions from role players like Brianna Turner and Odyssey Sims have made Indiana harder to guard. For Hull, her role has been to bring energy, knock down shots when open, and remain aggressive in transition.

Stephanie White, meanwhile, fielded questions about strategy and the psychology of going up against a dynasty like Las Vegas. White didn’t mince words—she praised the Aces’ talent but reminded reporters that the Fever earned their place in the semifinals. She stressed that the team’s focus was on execution, especially rebounding and limiting second-chance points, which have historically been the Aces’ bread and butter.

White also highlighted the evolution of her team over the season. At one point viewed as too young and inconsistent, the Fever now look battle-tested. The experience gained from close games, injuries, and rotations shifting has hardened them for the postseason stage. White credited her players’ resiliency and hunger, noting that every playoff win builds a new layer of belief.

Perhaps most importantly, White reiterated that the team’s mindset is centered not on surviving against Las Vegas but on competing to win. “We’re not here to just show up,” she said firmly. “We’re here to challenge, to grow, and to keep proving people wrong.”

Media members pressed White about Caitlin Clark’s continued absence and how the team has managed expectations without their star guard. White praised Clark’s presence around the team, acknowledging that her energy, advice, and competitiveness at practice have been invaluable even as she remains sidelined. For White, the Fever’s success this postseason has been about more than one player—it’s about a group rising together.

Hull echoed this sentiment, pointing to the team’s culture shift. “We all believe in each other,” she said. “When one person struggles, somebody else steps up. That’s why we’re here, and that’s why we believe we can keep going.”

The shootaround ended with the Fever projecting calm determination. No panic, no distractions—just a clear focus on the challenge ahead. Facing the Aces on their home floor is one of the most daunting tasks in the league, but Indiana entered Game 2 with a mix of youthful fearlessness and growing veteran poise.

Whether they can pull off another statement win remains to be seen, but if Lexie Hull and Stephanie White’s tone is any indication, the Fever are prepared to keep swinging at giants until the very end.