The Minnesota Lynx pulled off a surprising victory in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty, winning 95-93 in overtime on Thursday night.
Incredible Comeback
The Lynx started poorly, trailing 32-19 after the first quarter and falling behind by as much as 15 points in the fourth. However, they launched an impressive comeback with an 18-2 run in the last five minutes. Courtney Williams made a crucial four-point play with just 5.5 seconds left to give them their first lead.
They've been down but not out, Courtney Williams gets the and-1 after being fouled beyond the arc ๐ฑ#WNBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV
— WNBA (@WNBA)
Last-Minute Drama
Just when it seemed like Minnesota had secured the win, a review showed that Breanna Stewart was fouled with only 0.8 seconds left. She made one free throw but missed the second, pushing the game into overtime. In extra time, Napheesa Collier hit a decisive shot to seal the victory for Minnesota.
The game deciding shot by Napheesa Collier is NASTY ๐
THE @minnesotalynx TAKE GAME 1 OF THE #WNBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV WITH A FINAL SCORE OF 95-93
— WNBA (@WNBA)
Key Players Shine
The game wasn’t over yet; Stewart missed a potential tying layup at the buzzer. Williams led her team with 23 points, while Collier and Kayla McBride added 21 and 22 points respectively. Jonquel Jones stood out for New York with a double-double of 24 points and ten rebounds.
Sometimes we just can’t believe how unpredictable sports can be!
Impact on Series
For New York, this loss was tough to swallow since they controlled most of the game and were close to moving closer to their first WNBA title. But it slipped away, giving Minnesota not just a win but also home-court advantage now.
With this victory, Minnesota is eyeing its fifth championship title and its first since 2017โand they are now one step closer!
