Lynx secure narrow victory over Mercury despite Collier’s absence
Minnesota improves to 1-1 on the season while Phoenix falls to 1-2 after failing to convert in the second half.
The Minnesota Lynx have maintained their winning momentum with an 88-84 victory over the Phoenix Mercury on Tuesday night, a result that lifts their season record to 1-1. The contest was decided in the final minute, with Nia Coffey sinking a wide-open three-point shot with 25.6 seconds remaining to extend Minnesota’s lead to four points.
Coffey’s decisive basket was facilitated by a drive and pass from rookie Olivia Miles, who finished with 13 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. Miles further secured the outcome by grabbing a rebound following a missed three-pointer and converting a free throw with 13.2 seconds left on the clock. Coffey concluded the match with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Natasha Howard contributed 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Lynx.
Phoenix entered the final period with a 45-41 advantage, built on strong first-half shooting that included seven three-pointers. However, the Mercury’s offensive efficiency collapsed in the second half, where they managed only two three-pointers despite shooting 70 per cent from the free-throw line. Kahleah Copper led Phoenix with 30 points, including 13 in the first half, while DeWanna Bonner added 16 points.
The result leaves Phoenix with a 1-2 record, highlighting the challenges they face in maintaining consistency. Alyssa Thomas recorded 10 points and eight assists for the Mercury, and Natasha Mack contributed nine points and 10 rebounds, but the team could not overcome their second-half shooting drought.
For Minnesota, the victory comes against the backdrop of significant personnel constraints. Star player Napheesa Collier, the runner-up in last season’s MVP voting, remains sidelined due to ankle surgery. Collier underwent a procedure in early January and a second operation in March, with the team confirming she will be unavailable until at least early June. Despite her absence, the Lynx relied on balanced scoring from Kayla McBride, who added 14 points, and contributions from Courtney Williams and Emma Cechova, who each scored 11.
