WNBA: Lynx Win 2024 Commissioner's Cup Championship
LONG ISLAND, NY —It was a close game at the UBS arena as the reigning champions, New York Liberty, faced off against the Minnesota Lynx on Tuesday night. The game began explosively for the Liberty as they dominated early in the first quarter. But the Minnesota Lynx surged late in the fourth quarter to defeat the defending champion, New York Liberty, in the 2024 Commissioner's Cup Championship presented by Coinbase (94-89). The Lynx won the $500,000 prize pool and raised $27,000 for their selected non-profit organization, Gender Justice.
So, how did the Lynx defeat the reigning Cup champs?
An outstanding performance from Bridget Carleton and Napheesa Collier and an explosive defense in the second half propelled the Lynx to victory. The Minnesota Lynx made history by becoming the Commissioner's Cup champions for the first time in their franchise. The Lynx went on the road and controlled the second half. Collier was named MVP after finishing with 21 points, six rebounds, three assists, and three steals, adding to the excitement of their historic win.
Photo Credit: Yahoo Sports
Key Takeaways
Lynx has the League's Best Defense
The Lynx entered Tuesday's exhibition game with the best defense in the league. Throughout 16 games, they have allowed an average of 90.6 points per 100 possessions, which would be the best defensive rating since the 2007 Indiana Fever.
Photo Credit: Bally Sports
Bridget Carleton’s Phenomenal Performance
During Napheesa Collier’s postgame speech, she admitted that Bridget Carleton should have been named MVP of the game. While Collier played very well herself, Carleton's all-around effort on both sides of the ball stood out, as did her 3-point shooting. In a stellar performance, Carleton made 6 out of 8 three-pointers, ending the game with 23 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. She also played a key role in limiting Sabrina Ionescu to 2-of-9 shooting in the second half.
Photo Credit: Yahoo Sports
Liberty had 21 Turnovers
Sabrina Ionescu led the Liberty with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists but also accounted for seven of the Liberty's 21 turnovers, which the Lynx turned into 27 points. Breanna Stewart had 24 points and 11 rebounds.
A job well done by the Lynx!
