Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White recently revealed the strategic locker room plan that led to her team's successful containment of WNBA scoring leader Napheesa Collier. Collier, who is having an outstanding season, is currently averaging 24.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. She was also named the Western Conference Player of the Week multiple times and the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. Additionally, Collier will be one of the two team captains for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game on July 19.
The Indiana Fever faced a significant challenge in trying to slow down Collier, who has been carrying the Minnesota Lynx franchise. Prior to their recent matchup, Coach White acknowledged the game as a "measuring stick" for her team. The game plan's success was evident, as Collier was held to under 50% shooting and forced into five turnovers. Natasha Howard played a key role in executing this strategy, contributing 16 points and 12 rebounds.
Coach White openly shared the blueprint that allowed her team to limit Collier's impact. While the specifics of the scheme remain undisclosed in the available context, it’s clear that it was a carefully strategized move. The Fever's game plan likely focused on disrupting Collier's rhythm and limiting her opportunities to score. Given Collier's versatility and impact in multiple facets of the game, the defensive strategy likely involved a combination of tactics. These tactics may have included:
Natasha Howard's performance was particularly significant, especially considering her history with the Lynx. Howard was drafted by the Fever and later traded to the Lynx in 2016, where she won a championship. Her familiarity with the Lynx organization and her personal drive to win a championship with the Fever added extra motivation to her performance.
The Fever's victory was particularly impressive given that it was achieved without their offensive engine, Caitlin Clark. Clark, who was also chosen as captain for the WNBA All-Star Game, is currently sidelined with a groin strain but is averaging 18.2 points and a career-high 8.9 assists.
While the Fever's on-court performance is noteworthy, there have been reports of locker room tensions within the team. Sophie Cunningham alluded to "different islands" within the team, suggesting a lack of cohesion. However, the team's ability to execute a complex defensive strategy against a player of Collier's caliber suggests that they are still capable of working together effectively on the court.
Napheesa Collier continues to achieve individual success, earning accolades such as being named to the 2024 All-WNBA First Team and receiving her second Olympic gold medal. Her performance in the 2024 WNBA season has solidified her status as one of the league's premier players. Collier's achievements include being the first WNBA player to ever have 25+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 5+ assists on 70%+ shooting. She also recorded a game with 30+ points and 8+ steals, joining a select group of players in WNBA history.
