MINNESOTA LYNX AND STUDBUD COURTNEY WILLIAMS TAKE GAME ONE OF SERIES
The Minnesota Lynx dominated the Phoenix Mercury 82-69 in Game One of their WNBA playoff series, taking a crucial first step towards advancing to the next round. The win marked the team's 10th consecutive victory at home and improved their overall record to 22-12.
In a game that saw both teams struggle with turnovers, the Lynx ultimately outlasted the Mercury thanks in large part to the outstanding play of StudBud Courtney Williams. The dynamic forward led all scorers with 25 points, including a crucial 10-point fourth quarter surge that sealed the win for Minnesota.
"We knew it was going to be a tough game, but our team came out and executed," said Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve. "Courtney had an incredible game, and we were able to get some key stops on defense when it mattered most."
The Mercury, who have now lost five consecutive Game One playoff series on the road, struggled to contain Williams throughout the contest. The Minnesota forward shot 9-of-16 from the field and added six rebounds and four assists to her stat line.
Despite a strong first half that saw them outscore the Lynx by 10 points in the paint, the Mercury's offense stalled in the second half. They managed just 12 paint points after intermission, allowing Minnesota to pull away for good.
"We knew they were going to make some adjustments at halftime," said Phoenix coach Sandy Brondello. "We just didn't execute well enough on both ends of the floor."
The Lynx now hold a 1-0 advantage in the series and will look to build on their momentum when the teams meet again for Game Two on Wednesday.
Background: The Minnesota Lynx are seeking their fifth WNBA championship, having won titles in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. They have been led by a core group of players that includes Williams, Napheesa Collier, and Aerial Powers.
The Phoenix Mercury, meanwhile, are looking to make a deep playoff run after finishing the regular season with a 20-14 record. They were led in scoring by Diana Taurasi, who finished with 22 points on Sunday.
Next developments: The Lynx and Mercury will meet again for Game Two of their series on Wednesday at Target Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.
*Reporting by Forbes.*
