Minnesota Lynx Lead WNBA Semifinals Over Phoenix Mercury 1-0

The Minnesota Lynx secured a critical 82-69 victory over the Phoenix Mercury in Game 1 of the WNBA semifinals, overcoming a seven-point halftime deficit with a strong second-half defensive effort. Courtney Williams led the Lynx with 23 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, sparking the team alongside Kayla McBride and Napheesa Collier, who added 21 and 18 points respectively. The Lynx's defense was key, limiting Phoenix to just 22 points after halftime, despite the Mercury's early dominance in the paint. Phoenix struggled with shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, and failed to capitalize on second-chance opportunities, which Minnesota exploited with 20 second-chance points compared to Phoenix's five. Coach Cheryl Reeve credited the team's emotional maturity and problem-solving mindset during halftime for the comeback, while Phoenix coach Nate Tibbetts emphasized the need to improve rebounding and shot selection moving forward. The series continues with Game 2 in Minneapolis, where the Mercury will aim to bounce back from their Game 1 loss.