In an exciting semi-final match, the Minnesota Lynx demonstrated their adaptability and teamwork by defeating the Phoenix Mercury with a score of 82-69, thus securing a 1-0 lead in the series.
After a challenging first half, where they allowed 47 points, the team gathered in the locker room during halftime to rethink their strategy. The conversation was a clear example of collaboration, focusing on how to improve together without pointing fingers.
It was a collaborative effort in terms of what they wanted to do in terms of schemes. Everyone was involved.
Cheryl Reeve, Lynx Coach
Después de que Alyssa Thomas (centro) anotara o asistiera en 23 de los 47 puntos de Phoenix en la primera mitad, las Lynx decidieron hacerle doble marcaje, limitando a Thomas a solo dos puntos en el resto del juego.
David Sherman/NBAE via Getty ImagesThis dynamic of dialogue and adjustment is common for the Lynx, being key to change the course of the games. The defensive intensity was fundamental, limiting the Mercury to only 12 points in the second half after allowing 42 in the paint in the first.
The key was neutralizing Phoenix’s strategy, which involved Alyssa Thomas. In the first half, Thomas scored 16 points and contributed to 23 points for the team. However, in the second half, the Lynx applied a double team on Thomas, limiting her to only two points.
This strategy forced the Mercury to rely on three-point shots, with a poor result of 3 of 23 attempts. Courtney Williams led the Mercury with 23 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 5 steals.
Kayla McBride contributed 21 points and 6 rebounds, while Napheesa Collier added 18 points and 9 rebounds. The game, which arrived tied at 59 at the start of the last quarter, was defined with a 14-2 run in the last five minutes, sealing the victory for the Lynx.
We never feel like we’re down. We’re a resilient group, so we never look at the scoreboard. We just try to get the wins.
