When Lexie Hull was announced as Caitlin Clark’s replacement for the WNBA All-Star 3-Point Contest, most fans barely blinked. After all, Clark has been the face of women’s basketball this year. But by the time the buzzer sounded and the final rack was emptied, Hull had done more than just fill in — she had set the entire league on notice.

Finishing second in the high-stakes contest, Hull delivered one of the most electric shooting performances of the night. Calm, collected, and deadly from the corner, she reminded everyone why she’s been quietly one of Indiana’s most reliable shooters all season.

And while she didn’t walk away with the trophy, her performance was far from a consolation act. She hit shot after shot with machine-like consistency and confidence, pushing the competition to the edge. For many viewers, it was the first time they had truly seen what Hull brings to the game — and they were stunned.

But those close to the Indiana Fever? They weren’t surprised.

“People outside might be shocked, but we know exactly what she brings,” said one Fever insider. “She’s been doing this all year for us. She’s efficient, composed, and lethal from the perimeter.”

Perhaps just as powerful as Hull’s performance was the love she received from her teammates. Instead of staying home or relaxing during the break, several Indiana Fever players — including Aari McDonald and Sophie Cunningham — showed up courtside to cheer her on. That kind of camaraderie isn’t just a feel-good side note. It’s a reflection of a team culture that’s starting to click in a major way.

“This isn’t just about Lexie,” a Fever fan commented online. “It’s about this team. They’re bonding, they’re hungry, and they’re about to explode in the second half of the season.”

Indeed, with the All-Star break behind them, the Fever are gearing up for a critical stretch. After an up-and-down first half, there’s a growing belief that they could be on the verge of a playoff push — especially if coach Stephanie White can trust her players and stop overcomplicating the system.

“Stephanie’s got to let go a little,” one analyst observed. “Stick to what works. Let Lexie shoot. Let the team build on this momentum. There’s something special brewing in Indiana.”

Lexie herself was beaming after the contest. “I just wanted to have fun,” she said. “I knew my teammates would be there supporting me, and I wanted to represent the city and the team the best I could.”

Mission accomplished.

While Sabrina Ionescu may still hold the crown for now, Lexie Hull just forced her way into the conversation. And next year? She won’t be a replacement — she’ll be an invite.

One breakout night. One nearly flawless performance. And now, one question that has the WNBA buzzing:

Is Lexie Hull the Fever’s secret weapon?

Stay tuned. The second half of this season just got way more interesting.