Lynx Aim for Redemption in Semifinals Against Mercury

Minneapolis, Minnesota — The Minnesota Lynx are close to returning to the WNBA Finals, needing just two more wins. They aim for a different outcome after last year’s tough Finals loss to the New York Liberty.

In 2024, the Lynx fell to the Liberty in a heart-wrenching Game 5 overtime defeat. Lynx star forward Napheesa Collier scored a game-high 22 points during that match but could not secure the victory. This year, the team has performed impressively, tying the WNBA record with 34 regular-season wins, which earned them the top seed for the playoffs.

Currently, the Lynx are tied 1-1 with the Phoenix Mercury in the semifinals. The Lynx hope to use the motivation from last year’s loss to drive their performance higher. In a recent interview with Ari Chambers, Collier reflected on how the Finals loss continues to influence her.

“I feel like I use it to fuel me to be better, to be a better player,” Collier said. She mentioned utilizing resources from the offseason to ensure she is prepared for the current challenges. “I just don’t want to be in that situation again where we’re having to depend on the refs. I’d rather us win by 20, so it has nothing to do with that,” Collier added.

The Lynx performed strongly in Game 1, but the Mercury came back in Game 2, overcoming a 20-point deficit to level the series. On Friday, both teams are set to compete in Game 3 in Phoenix, with the Lynx needing a win to maintain their confidence after the previous loss.

Despite concerns regarding player fitness, the Lynx have only one injury. Guard DiJonai Carrington is sidelined due to a season-ending foot injury. The Mercury, on the other hand, are fully healthy, which could play a crucial role in the matchup.

As the series progresses, the focus will be on both star players, Collier and Mercury MVP finalist Alyssa Thomas, as well as their supporting cast. Game 3, slated to start at 9:30 p.m. ET on Friday on ESPN2, could be a deciding factor in this competitive series.