Biggest WNBA Underdogs: Can Fever or Wings Pull Off July Shocks?

Indiana and Dallas aren’t just fighting for wins, they’re fighting for respect. As the WNBA heads into its All Star break, these two underdog teams face defining moments.

The Indiana Fever, energized by Caitlin Clark’s leadership, shows flashes of rising dominance. Meanwhile, the injury-hit Dallas Wings battle to stay afloat, banking on grit and a few well-timed comebacks. The question is whether either team defies expectations and delivers upsets in July.
This article explores what makes each team a potential disruptor in the WNBA landscape. From statistical trends to individual player impact, we break down the forces at play and what needs to go right for these teams to shine.

Indiana’s Balanced Attack Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive

With a 10-10 record, the Indiana Fever may not scream “powerhouse,” but under the surface, they’re building momentum. Offensively, the team is hitting its stride. They rank fifth in the league in points per game (81.3) and boast a 33.6% three-point shooting percentage. That efficiency comes largely from smart spacing and Caitlin Clark’s court vision, which forces defenses to stay honest.
More importantly, Indiana is defending better. They’ve held two of their last four opponents under 80 points, a promising shift for a squad that previously struggled with containment.
The frontcourt strength of Aliyah Boston brings inside presence and rebounding muscle. Boston, averaging 16.2 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, is anchoring the paint. That two-way gives Indiana a platform to build on.

July Momentum: Can the Fever Close Before the Break?

Wednesday’s showdown with Dallas is crucial, not just as a win opportunity but as a tone-setter before the WNBA’s All Star hiatus.
Indiana has covered the spread in four of its last five Wednesday games and enters the matchup as 4.5-point favorites. In betting circles, this edge reflects not just form but public faith in Clark and company.
Their offense is unpredictable in the best way. The Fever are sixth in the league in three-pointers made (209), showing how their perimeter threats stretch defenses. Whether attacking from deep or driving inside, they’ve shown an ability to adapt on the fly.
That adaptability could be their secret weapon. With growing fan attention and games that often draw national broadcasts, Indiana isn’t just playing—they’re performing.
Notably, the FanDuel WNBA odds reflect increased confidence in the Fever’s trajectory, especially in tightly matched games where their firepower can swing momentum quickly.

Wings’ Grit Remains Their Best Asset

Dallas sits at 6–15, and the numbers don’t lie: it’s been a rough ride. But behind the record is a team that refuses to fold. Struggles have defined their season, yet the Wings continue to find bright spots. Rookie Paige Bueckers is averaging 18.1 points and 4.1 assists per game. Her ability to break down defenses and finish or distribute is invaluable. In her latest outing, Bueckers delivered 17 points, three boards, and four assists, a stat line that reveals her impact on both ends.
Teaira McCowan anchors the frontcourt with her size and touch around the rim. Averaging 11.5 points and 7.4 rebounds, she gives Dallas a reliable interior presence. In a recent matchup versus Phoenix, McCowan posted 15 points and 10 boards, proof that she can still dominate in stretches.
The challenge remains consistency, especially on defense. Dallas has allowed over 100 points in two of their last three games. If they want to be July’s disruptors, that end of the court needs urgent attention.

History Shows They Can Surprise

On June 27, Dallas hosted Indiana in a high-energy showdown that drew 20,409 fans and broke viewership records for ION. The game was moved from College Park Center to the larger American Airlines Center due to high ticket demand. While Caitlin Clark was sidelined with an injury, the Fever still emerged victorious, 94–86, ending the Wings’ three-game win streak.
Even in defeat, Dallas demonstrated offensive potential, while Indiana showed they could win without their superstar. Paige Bueckers starred in that matchup with 27 points and six assists, underlining how unpredictable these games can be when top talents are firing.
The fact that both teams could draw over a million viewers speaks volumes about their national relevance, even if their records don’t yet reflect it.
This rematch narrative gives their next clash emotional weight and fan interest far beyond the standings.

The Schedule Sets the Stage for High-Stakes Games

Timing may favor these underdogs. The upcoming All Star pause halts league momentum, offering time for rest and strategic resets. For Indiana, it’s a chance to fine-tune what’s already working. For Dallas, it’s a lifeline, a window to heal, recalibrate, and possibly salvage a turbulent season.
Before that break, however, both squads need a win. For Indiana, it would mean entering August above .500 and staking a stronger playoff claim. For Dallas, victory would offer validation and a morale boost in a tough year. That kind of motivation can often tilt close games.
Both teams have nationally televised matchups lined up, including another AAC game on August 1. With broadcast eyes watching and stakes rising, performance under pressure becomes the new metric for success.
*All stats, player info, and team developments are accurate as of publication 2025/07/10 and are subject to change.

Underdog Status Comes With Opportunity

Being labeled an underdog isn’t always a bad thing. It allows teams to play with a chip on their shoulder and often loosens the weight of expectation. For Indiana, the label is slowly shedding. For Dallas, it still defines their narrative, but also their opportunity.
Clark’s rising stardom keeps the spotlight on Indiana, but it’s the supporting cast—Boston, Smith, Mitchell—that could make the difference. For Dallas, Sims and McCowan’s form post-break could swing their trajectory. Underdog stories depend on timing, belief, and execution. July’s WNBA matchups provide all three.
The teams that can seize those variables, even briefly, may not just cover spreads—they might rewrite expectations.

August Awaits: Will the Fever Rise or the Wings Rally?

As the WNBA enters its summer pause, eyes turn to how Indiana and Dallas will reemerge. The Fever have shown they can win with or without Clark, relying on depth and discipline. Dallas, bruised but battle-tested, will aim to return healthier and hungrier.
For fans and analysts alike, the story is no longer just about potential. It’s about who shows up when the lights are brightest. Whether it’s Indiana cementing their rise or Dallas delivering a late-summer shock, the stage is set for defining moments.
Because sometimes, the biggest upsets aren’t shocks—they’re just overdue.

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