The Minnesota Lynx ended the Indiana Fever's five-game winning streak on Sunday behind Olivia Miles' scoring masterclass. After watching the Lynx exploit the Fever's defense, Jason Whitlock alleged that Fever HC Stephanie White's hatred was a reason behind the Fever's defensive lapse.

Miles became a big headache for the Fever in the first half, scoring 23 points alone. Whitlock blamed it on White's decision to restrict the minutes of Lexie Hull, who could have interrupted Miles' scoring run.

"Stephanie White HATES Lexie Hull," he wrote in a post on X on Sunday, Aug. 2. "She'd rather run Raven Johnson out there to defend Olivia Miles rather than give Hull a possession or two. It's worth a try. Never considered."

Miles scored nine points in the opening quarter while Hull was still on the court. Sophie Cunningham later subbed her out.

In the second quarter, White decided to put Johnson on Miles. The Lynx rookie exploded for 14 points in the quarter, while Hull sat out the entire 2nd quarter. Johnson (4 minutes) never took the court again.

"Would rather blow up her normal rotation and play someone who hasn't played real minutes in weeks," Whitlock added.

Johnson has been the Fever's reserve defensive guard. Her minutes have fluctuated through her rookie year, averaging 12.3 minutes a game.

Hull, one of the best wing defenders in the league, has been the starter on the Fever. However, compared to last season, her minutes have significantly decreased to under 20 minutes.

But a deeper look reveals a bigger problem for the Fever that went beyond Hull and Johnson.

The Fever's defense issues ran deeper than Lexie Hull and Raven Johnson

Indiana's defensive issues ran deeper, and perhaps in the paint, which cost them the game. The Lynx outrebounded the Fever  33-23 in their 108-100 win.

Moreover, it was the Fever's inability to secure their board that fell even heavier on their defense. Minnesota secured 11 offensive rebounds against Indiana's five, and hence the second-chance points.

The Fever also committed 12 turnovers. The Lynx capitalized on the opportunity, scoring 15 points off them.

Indiana is the best offensive team in the WNBA this season. However, the Lynx's balance on both ends has helped them stay at the top.

Indiana has struggled defensively throughout the season.

After the Sunday loss, they have become the only team in WNBA history to concede 100+ points in 10 or more games in a season, per SI. The previous record (9) was held by Dallas in 2024.

What do you think is the Fever's biggest defensive weakness? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Nandjee Ranjan

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore