In an exciting semi-final match, the Minnesota Lynx faced the Phoenix Mercury. After a challenging first half, the Lynx demonstrated their ability to react and strategize. After conceding 47 points in the first half, the team gathered in the locker room for a crucial conversation. The focus was collective, seeking team solutions to improve their performance.
The defensive strategy was key to the Lynx’s victory, who achieved a 1-0 lead in the series, with a final score of 82-69.It was a collaborative effort in terms of what they wanted to do in terms of schemes. Everyone participated.
Cheryl Reeve, Lynx coach
After allowing 42 points in the paint in the first half, the Lynx limited the Mercury to only 12 in the second, outscoring them by 20 points in the last 20 minutes. The key was to adjust their defense, especially against Alyssa Thomas. In the first half, Thomas scored 16 points, but in the second, only two. The Lynx double-teamed Thomas on seven possessions, forcing the Mercury to rely on three-pointers, with a poor result of 3 out of 23. Courtney Williams led the Mercury with 23 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 steals, making league history. Kayla McBride contributed 21 points and 6 rebounds, while Napheesa Collier added 18 points and 9 rebounds. The game was tied at 59 at the start of the last quarter, but the Lynx secured the victory with a 14-2 run in the last five minutes.We have been through many adverse situations in the last two years together. We always know it’s a team effort. We know that in those moments we need to brainstorm. We are never alone. We are doing it together. We are trying to solve problems and do whatever it takes to win. It was another example of that today in the halftime conversation.
Kayla McBride
We never feel like we’re down. We’re a resilient group, so we never look at the scoreboard. We just try to go get kills.
Courtney Williams
