Historic run by Valkyries in WNBA playoffs, featuring display of determination and strategy, concludes in close defeat against top-ranked Lynx in championship match.
The SAP Center in San Jose was filled to capacity for Game 2 of the series between the Minnesota Lynx and the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors, the No. 8 seed, put up a valiant effort, but it was the Lynx who emerged victorious with a thrilling 75-74 comeback win.
The first half belonged to the Warriors, who entered the break with a 41-28 lead - the fewest points the Lynx had managed in a first half during their 2025 campaign. The Warriors were particularly impressive from beyond the arc, going 7 of 11 in the first two quarters.
However, the Lynx mounted a comeback in the second half. Kayla McBride scored a two-pointer to give them a 71-70 lead with 2:48 left in the game. Courtney Williams then made a clutch jump shot for Minnesota with under 30 seconds remaining. In response, Cecilia Zandalasini scored a bucket for the Warriors, but time was running out.
With the Lynx holding a 75-74 advantage, the Warriors had one last opportunity. However, Natisha Hiedeman disrupted their plans with a big steal for the Lynx on the next possession. The Warriors were then called for a shot clock violation with four seconds left, securing the victory for the Lynx.
The Lynx defense held on despite Golden State's best efforts. This win marks the Lynx's advancement to the WNBA semifinals, where they will face the winner of the New York/Phoenix series.
The Golden State Warriors, despite being an expansion team, had the best season for a new team in WNBA history. Their head coach, Natalie Nakase, was named Coach of the Year, while Veronica Burton was named Most Improved Player.
In her postgame interview, Napheesa Collier stated that the Lynx knew what they were up against and have the experience to win in tough situations. Kayla McBride intentionally committed a foul with 2.8 seconds on the clock to give the Warriors one last chance, but it was not enough.
The Minnesota Lynx have shown their resilience and determination in this series, and they will look to carry that momentum into the semifinals.
Read also:
- United States tariffs pose a threat to India, necessitating the recruitment of adept negotiators or strategists, similar to those who had influenced Trump's decisions.
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
