Lynx Win in Last Seconds Over Mercury in Thrilling Showdown

PHOENIX, Arizona — Natisha Hiedeman hit a clutch 3-pointer with just 5.1 seconds left, leading the undefeated Minnesota Lynx to a 74-71 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Friday night.

The Lynx, now 6-0, trailed for much of the game but rallied late. Hiedeman’s shot gave Minnesota only their second lead in the fourth quarter. After a Mercury timeout, Sami Whitcomb attempted a long-range shot but missed, sealing the game for Minnesota.

With one minute remaining, the Mercury held a precarious 71-68 edge. However, Courtney Williams answered back with a 3-pointer to tie the score at 71 with just 53 seconds on the clock. The Mercury’s offense faltered shortly after, turning the ball over twice, including a shot clock violation.

Kayla McBride led the Lynx with 20 points while Alanna Smith contributed 19. For the Mercury (4-2), Satou Sabally scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Williams added 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, showcasing her versatility.

McBride was especially sharp early in the match, scoring 10 points in the first quarter and earning 7-for-7 from the free-throw line in the opening period. The Lynx ended the first quarter ahead, 20-17. Phoenix temporarily took control as Whitcomb hit a pull-up 3-pointer, giving the Mercury a 29-26 lead late in the second quarter. However, McBride hit a crucial 3-pointer right before halftime, leaving Minnesota down by just one at 39-38.

The Mercury gained momentum with a seven-point lead in the final minute of the third quarter, finishing the period up 58-53 after outscoring the Lynx 19-15. Napheesa Collier, who has been a standout player for Minnesota with an average of 26.8 points per game, missed Friday’s game due to a knee injury.

The match underscored the fierce competitiveness in the league, with both teams showcasing their grit. Despite missing star player Alyssa Thomas, the Mercury continue to fight hard as the season progresses.