In an electrifying WNBA Finals matchup, the Minnesota Lynx pulled off a stunning 89-82 victory against the New York Liberty. With their backs against the wall, the Lynx fought hard to avoid elimination. Their win set the stage for a high-stakes Game 5.
The Liberty, led by Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, had momentum coming into Game 4 after winning the previous game. However, Minnesota, powered by Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, refused to back down. The Lynx showed grit and determination to even the series.
First Quarter: Lynx Take Control
The Lynx wasted no time establishing dominance in the first quarter. Collier scored eight of her 24 points early, dominating the paint. Her effort set the tone defensively, holding New York to just 18 points in the quarter.
Meanwhile, the Liberty struggled to get going. Ionescu missed her first three shots, while Stewart worked hard to keep the Liberty in the game. By the end of the first, Minnesota led 25-18, putting New York on the back foot.
Second Quarter: Liberty’s Comeback
New York found their rhythm in the second quarter. Ionescu hit back-to-back three-pointers, and Jonquel Jones provided an offensive spark. The Liberty cut the lead to just three points by halftime, trailing 44-41.
McBride’s 18-point performance was crucial during New York’s surge. Her sharp shooting kept Minnesota’s offense flowing when the Liberty applied pressure.
Third Quarter: A Back-and-Forth Battle
The third quarter was a game of runs, with both teams fighting for control. The Liberty, energized by their fans, went on an 8-0 run to take the lead. Stewart hit a difficult jumper, and Laney added a three-pointer to fuel their comeback.
Minnesota responded with a 10-2 run of their own. Collier and McBride kept the Lynx in the game. Jessica Shepard’s defense and rebounding also limited New York’s second-chance opportunities. Heading into the fourth, Minnesota regained a narrow 68-65 lead.
Fourth Quarter: Lynx Seal the Deal
The final quarter was tense, with big plays on both sides. Stewart and Ionescu combined for 15 points, attempting to rally the Liberty. But Minnesota’s defense stood tall. Key turnovers and clutch plays helped them regain control.
McBride hit a decisive three-pointer with under two minutes left, giving the Lynx a six-point lead. New York missed crucial shots down the stretch, allowing Minnesota to close out the game. Free throws from the Lynx sealed their 89-82 win, sending the series to a Game 5.
Key Highlights
- Napheesa Collier’s Leadership: Collier finished with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, driving the Lynx to victory.
- Kayla McBride’s Clutch Shooting: McBride’s 18 points included a crucial three-pointer in the game’s final moments.
- Breanna Stewart’s Standout Performance: Despite the loss, Stewart contributed 30 points and 12 rebounds for the Liberty.
- Defensive Effort: Minnesota held New York to 42% shooting and forced 15 turnovers, crucial in their victory.
- Rebounding Edge: The Lynx out-rebounded the Liberty 42-35, limiting New York’s second-chance points.
Looking Ahead to Game 5
With the series now tied 2-2, all eyes are on Game 5 at New York’s Barclays Center. Both teams have shown they can handle pressure, making this final game highly anticipated. The Liberty will hope to capitalize on home-court advantage, while Minnesota seeks to ride the momentum of their Game 4 win.
This WNBA Finals has been a thriller from start to finish. As we head to the decisive Game 5, fans can expect an epic showdown between two talented teams.
Conclusion
The Minnesota Lynx’s Game 4 victory breathed life into their championship dreams. Led by Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, they proved they could rise to the occasion under pressure. With both teams fighting for the title, Game 5 promises to deliver another unforgettable chapter in WNBA history.
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