Lynx Secure Fifth Straight Win with 82-77 Victory Over Storm

Courtney Williams led the charge for the Minnesota Lynx, scoring 23 points in their 82-77 victory against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday night. Napheesa Collier contributed significantly with 16 points and 10 rebounds, helping the Lynx maintain their position as early leaders in the Western Conference.

The Lynx's impressive start to the season continues, marking their fifth consecutive win. This game also marked the return of Kayla McBride, who had been absent for the first four games due to personal reasons.

Initially, Minnesota surged ahead, establishing a double-digit lead. However, Seattle's Dominique Malonga ignited a comeback by scoring at the start of the fourth quarter, narrowing the gap to 54-53. Despite this, the Lynx held their ground; Williams and Alanna Smith each sank crucial 3-pointers, pushing the score to 70-64 with just under four minutes remaining.

With two minutes left on the clock, Williams hit a couple of pull-up jumpers, extending Minnesota's lead to 76-69. Seattle responded with four quick points, bringing the score to 76-73 with only 27 seconds left. McBride then stepped up, sinking four free throws to give the Lynx an 80-74 advantage with 14 seconds remaining. Although Erica Wheeler managed a 3-pointer for Seattle, Collier sealed the game with two more free throws before the Storm turned over possession in their final attempt.

In addition to Williams and Collier's performances, Alanna Smith added 16 points while McBride finished with 15. Collier also showcased her defensive skills with five rebounds and five steals.

For Seattle, Gabby Williams was a standout scorer with 20 points, supported by Skylar Diggins with 18 points, Nneka Ogwumike contributing 11, and Erica Wheeler adding 10 points as the Storm fell to a record of 3-2.

The Lynx started strong, hitting six of their first seven shots and racing to a 14-2 lead within just two and a half minutes. McBride made an immediate impact by sinking two 3-pointers during this stretch. By the end of the first quarter, Minnesota led 26-11 and maintained a 39-29 advantage at halftime.

As the third quarter wound down, Gabby Williams executed a three-point play while Diggins added two free throws, closing the gap to 48-45. The Lynx entered the final quarter with a slight edge at 54-51.

Next up, Minnesota will face Phoenix on Friday, while Seattle prepares to host Atlanta on the same day.