Natisha Hiedeman’s crucial 3-pointer with just over five seconds left secured a 74-71 win for the Minnesota Lynx against the Phoenix Mercury.
This shot marked only their second lead in the final quarter. Following a timeout, Sami Whitcomb missed a long-range attempt for Phoenix. Minnesota had been trailing 71-68 with a minute remaining, but Courtney Williams tied it with a 3-pointer at 53 seconds.
Sabrina Ionescu’s impressive performance, including four 3-pointers and 28 points, led the New York Liberty to an 85-63 victory over the Washington Mystics. Jonquel Jones contributed significantly with 14 points and 18 rebounds. The Liberty’s perfect start (6-0) is their best in franchise history. Despite Brittney Sykes’ efforts for Washington, scoring 20 points, the Mystics struggled with prolonged scoring droughts.
Kayla McBride was instrumental for the Lynx, scoring 20 points, while Alanna Smith added 19. Williams contributed with 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. For Phoenix, Satou Sabally scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Kalani Brown had an efficient night with 15 points on nearly perfect shooting, and Whitcomb added another 13 points.
A’ja Wilson delivered an outstanding performance for the Las Vegas Aces with 35 points and 13 rebounds in their win over the Los Angeles Sparks, finishing at 96-81. This game marked Wilson’s highest-scoring effort since her previous record in September against Phoenix. Jackie Young supported with an additional 26 points for the Aces.
The Mercury had built a seven-point advantage by the end of the third quarter and entered the final period leading by five after outscoring Minnesota in that quarter. However, Minnesota’s resilience paid off in the closing moments of the game.
Brittney Sykes attempted to narrow Washington’s deficit early in the second half but was countered by Ionescu’s three-point play that initiated a decisive run for New York. The Mystics faced challenges from poor shooting percentages throughout the game.
Kelsey Plum led Los Angeles with her contribution of 17 points despite facing technical fouls alongside coach Lynne Roberts due to disputes with officials. The Aces established control early on through a significant run before maintaining their lead throughout.
The Las Vegas Aces’ victory was further solidified by Chelsea Gray’s contribution of fifteen points as they overcame their previous loss to secure this win against Los Angeles Sparks.