Author: Ryan Baker

Photos: SEDIII Productions

After a triumphant weekend, the Indianapolis AlleyCats will have to focus on a game against the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds this Saturday night. Not only is this the first time these two teams have played this season, but an AlleyCat win would go a long way toward securing a playoff spot for them.

The Thunderbirds will come to town for Indy’s final home game of the season as part of a Midwest trip, after facing Madison the night prior.

There’s a chance this game turns into one of the highest-scoring affairs we’ve seen all season. Pittsburgh has allowed 30 or more goals in a game on four occasions, while Indy is coming off a masterful offensive performance, putting up 31 against the Radicals.

“I think really studying what we did well and what were some flaws is the best way to make minor changes,” said Head Coach Nathan Bussberg on what the team can take away from their 2-0 weekend.

Furthermore, Pittsburgh gives up the most goals per game at 27.3, and it throws 22.5 turnovers per game, so if that latter mark is met, Indy could end up having a lot of fun this weekend. On the other side, if Indy fails to maintain the defensive pressure it has shown in recent games, Pittsburgh can go shot for shot with them.

“We learned a lot this weekend and took a step in the right direction, but one good weekend doesn't define a season. If this is the best version of ourselves by year's end, we'll be disappointed. We have a lot of work left to do.” said Bussberg.

The AlleyCats will have a bit more work cut out for them with Jonathan Mast, William Wettengel, Carter Hawkins, and Sofiène Bontemps out. The O-line takes a three-person hit, and guys like Jeremiah Branson and Carson Chamberlain could be names to look for in elevated roles.

One thing to keep an eye on, which may not affect this game but certainly will down the line, is that Keegan North’s status is improving from week to week. Last week, he was listed as doubtful; this week, he is questionable.

The defense’s transition offense has been stepping up and had a major surge last weekend. A combined 22 breaks in the two games came from 26 total forced turnovers. For reference, Indy had 35 breaks over the course of their first seven games.

Kai Creed has been taking over as a primary defender in the handler space, and there has been a level-up from more role players like Joel Close and Jake Wahl. Indy must keep that momentum if they want to improve their record to 5-5.

“My mindset when I’m going out on the field is that it’s a privilege to play, and I want to make the most out of the opportunity, so I want to execute the coach's game plan and make plays whenever possible,” Close said. “As a defensive player, I’m always looking to disrupt their offense and shift the momentum in our favor.”

Former All-UFA Defensive Team selection Nate Little stressed the importance of communication and of always being on the same page with the entire line.

“Talking, whether it’s during or after the game or the point,” Little said. “The more you know what you expect from your teammates, the better. Whether you’re talking or pointing, it’s how we exceed expectations. Switching should be automatic. We have to build consistency. We know we have the tool, so it’s time to see if we know how to use it.”

The AlleyCats are a young team, so it will be interesting to see if they head into this game with their chests puffed out. Even so, the team has been staying grounded and understands they need to look for every point.

“Every game we have to fight to prove we are up there,” Little said. “Fighting for each other includes winning your battles and challenging your individual play. If we keep these things in mind, future outcomes will heavily be in our favor.”

If the team can carry the momentum over while keeping their heads on their shoulders, they will improve to 5-5 and ensure they don’t lose the tiebreaker against Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh would fall to 2-7, and Indy would remain in position to hold the third seed. A simple loss on Friday night to Madison and another loss to Indy would officially lock in a playoff berth for the AlleyCats.

“We can carry our momentum from our two big wins last weekend by focusing on ourselves and making sure we play our game,” Close said. “Last week, we showed what we are capable of; now we just need to find a way to repeat that going forward.”

To buy tickets to the final home game of 2026, go here!

To watch the game on Saturday at 6 p.m. CT, go here!