INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indiana Fever beat the Golden State Valkyries, 90-82, to win their third straight game to close out their homestand.

Caitlin Clark returned after missing Wednesday’s game due to a back injury. Clark had a team-high 22 points (7-15 FG and 4-9 3FG) and 9 assists.

Aliyah Boston had a big night, putting up 20 points (8-15 FG) and 16 rebounds, which tied a regular season career-high.

Kelsey Mitchell added 19 points (4-10 FG) and three assists. Sophie Cunningham (11 points) also scored in double figures.

As a team, the Fever shot 46% from the floor, 38% from three, and 76% from the free throw line.

The Fever (4-2) are back in action on Thursday when they face the Valkyries again, this time on the road. Tipoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Jordin Sparks will perform the national anthem before the 2026 Indianapolis 500, marking her third appearance singing the patriotic standard at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The pre-race ceremony for the 110th running of the race will also coincide with celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, adding historical significance to this year’s event. Coverage of the pre-race festivities is scheduled to begin Sunday at 10 a.m. EDT across FOX networks and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

IMS and INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles praised Sparks’ previous performances at the speedway and welcomed her return to the annual tradition. Sparks previously sang the anthem before the race in 2015 and 2024.

Sparks first rose to national prominence after winning “American Idol” and later built a successful music career with multiple charting hits and millions of digital sales. She has toured alongside major pop artists, collaborated on award-winning music connected to Ariana Grande and expanded into acting with film and Broadway roles, including appearances alongside Whitney Houston and performances in the stage production of In the Heights.

Outside entertainment, Sparks remains active in philanthropy, media appearances and brand partnerships through her large social media following.

• Drivers shared their perspectives on crashing, with one calling it part of the job description.
• Will Power’s experience from Team Penske is pushing Andretti Global to a higher standard.
• According to one driver, a sarcastic thumbs-up has replaced the middle finger as the go-to gesture on the track.

INDIANAPOLIS – Putting a revolving panel of 33 race car drivers in front of dozens of reporters on and off over a couple of weeks might be as good a metaphor for the Indianapolis 500 as there is.

Every lap takes us closer to the finish, and although not every one is exciting there’s usually some captivating entertainment along the way.

Here’s a collection of some of the insightful and interesting comments – and some silliness – from media day ahead of the 110th running May 24 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Perspective on crashing from three drivers

After crashing during practice May 18 and undergoing a small outpatient procedure on his right ankle, front-row qualifier Alexander Rossi has been cleared to drive.

Not that there was a doubt in his mind.

“Unfortunately I’ve crashed twice here. Both times have been turn two,” Rossi said. “I recovered from that. I don’t see this being any different.

“We crash race cars. That’s part of the job description.”

Rossi needs crutches to get around because he can’t put weight on the ankle, but he was able to get in and out of his car, drive on the simulator and react to situations to the satisfaction of IndyCar medical officials. Rossi will have a brace on his foot, but was able to wear his usual shoe.

Before knowing for certain Rossi had been cleared, Conor Daly was asked about the drivers’ mindset in regard to injuries.

“We’re a bunch of psychos, honestly,” Daly said. “If you have this job, you’re very lucky to have this job, so you don’t want to let that go away at all.