Games were close, and tensions were rising. Even though it was just the start of the season, neither team wanted to start the new season with more losses. So, when Caitlin Clark’s Indian Fever played back-to-back games against Rhyne Howard and her Atlanta Dream, both fierce competitors were looking to get the better of each other. After 10 days and five games in the season, Rhyne shared some memories, but instead of CC, she tagged Lexie Hull, who was a primary guard on the Dream’s guard.

Atlanta Dream had a decent start to the season, 3-2 after games against Mystics, Wings, Suns, and splitting the wins with the Fever. Rhyne Howard, the 2022 first overall pick, is off to a hot start in the new season with 16 points, 4 rebounds and 5.3 assists. Her numbers rose up to 22 points with 3.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists – playing against Caitlin Clark.

That matchup felt like a personal challenge, with both players pushing each other to the limit. Rhyne’s intensity on the court was clear, especially when she went head-to-head with Clark, who’s been turning heads as the Fever’s star rookie. Their rivalry added an extra spark to the games, setting the stage for some unforgettable moments.

The tension between the two was visible in game 3.

Late in a tight second-half sequence, Howard was called for a foul for body checking CC as she was all over the Fever guard well before the halfway mark. Instead of reacting to the foul call, Howard was more engaged in taunting Clark. But the 2024 rookie of the year winner had her response, “I’m not scared of you”, and went on to destroy the Atlanta defence with her gameplay. Was it hate? Was it competitiveness? Rhyne at least cleared the air with her latest post.

In a post captioned “No space for hate 🙅🏾‍♀️Ft. Lexie’s new defensive tactic”, she had only one opponent in her reel, Lexie Hull. Hull, also a 2022 draft pick, sixth overall, replied to the image quickly.

“It’s a good one, I must say.” In the image, Hull was on the ground, completely beaten and looking to catch up with Rhyne. Her subtle response was well appreciated by fans as it was taken in a ‘light mood’. In reality, Hull and Rhyne have a good rapport, and both played in the new unrivalled league. In the game, Howard was able to beat Hull by a score of 12-7.

While Rhyne and Hull are sharing laughs off the court, they are both very competitive on the court. In fact, Hull had an assignment of guarding Howard during their match-ups.

For the Fever and Dream, these early-season games are about more than just wins, they’re about setting the tone for the 2025 season. The Fever, coming off their first playoff appearance since 2016, are building around rookie sensation CC and a young core that includes Lexie Hull. The Dream, led by All-Stars Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, are eager to prove they can compete with the league’s best. These matchups offer both teams a chance to showcase their readiness to contend in a competitive league, with every play carrying significant weight.

Rhyne Howard and Lexie Hull play key roles in their respective franchises

With few teams dominating the league earlier, the emergence of franchises like the Indiana Fever, Atlanta Dream, LA Sparks, Mystics, and Las Vegas Aces in recent years has upped the tempo. Rookies played a vital role in these close games and encounters. Rhyne Howard and Lexie Hull are playing in their fourth season and have settled well in the league.

Howard was a two-time SEC Player of the Year and the SEC Tournament MVP in 2022. She was named WNBA Rookie of the Year and also earned All-Star selections in two of her first three years. Averaging 17 points, 3.2 assists and 4.6 rebounds, the Kentucky star has now earned the starter role on her side.

Lexie Hull, though yet to be named as a regular starter for the Indiana side, has been a key figure in their game plan. Her resilient defending and even shooting efficiency played an important role in the second half of the 2024 season, where the Fever earned a spot in the postseason. Lexie still remains only the second player outside the core-three of the Fever side to retain her place in the team despite the mega overhaul in off off-season.

In 2025, she is the fifth top scorer in an explosive side with 10 points, four rebounds and one assist, leading the side in steals. She will get another chance to guard Howard as the Fever and Dream will meet again on Tuesday, June 10, in Atlanta. Their final regular-season clash is scheduled for Friday, July 11, in Indianapolis.

Fans are already buzzing about these rematches, and you can bet Lexie’s ready to step up her defense against Rhyne after that viral reel. With Clark drawing tons of attention, Lexie’s role as a gritty defender and clutch shooter will be huge for the Fever. For the Dream, Rhyne’s looking to keep her hot streak going and lead her team to a statement win at home. These games are shaping up to be must-watch, with more on-court intensity and maybe a few more social media gems to come.