Lynx Force Game 5 in WNBA Finals

The Minnesota Lynx forced a decisive Game 5 in the WNBA Finals by narrowly defeating the New York Liberty 82-80, thanks to Bridget Carleton's crucial free throws with two seconds remaining. Despite standout performances from Minnesota's Kayla McBride and Napheesa Collier, Liberty stars Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu struggled, combining for a poor shooting night. This sets up a winner-takes-all game in Brooklyn, marking the first Game 5 in the Finals since 2019. The Lynx aim for their fifth championship while the Liberty seek their first-ever title. The series has been tightly contested, with Game 4 featuring 14 lead changes and 13 ties, contrasting with earlier games characterized by double-digit leads and comebacks.