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Napheesa Collier and the Minnesota Lynx wrapped up an improbable comeback in Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA Finals on Thursday night, defeating the New York Liberty in overtime by the final score of 95-93.
Minnesota trailed by as many as 18 points in the first half and faced an 81-66 deficit with five minutes remaining in regulation. The Lynx were able to force overtime by ending the fourth quarter on an 18-3 run, which included a four-point play by Courtney Williams that gave the team a one-point lead.
Minnesota’s advantage was short-lived, as two-time MVP Breanna Stewart was fouled just before the final buzzer sounded. However, she was only able to make one of her two free-throw attempts which resulted in overtime.
Both teams traded baskets in the extra five minutes before Collier connected on a fadeaway jumper to give the Lynx a two-point lead with roughly eight seconds remaining in the contest. A potential game-tying shot by Stewart didn’t connect as the buzzer sounded, giving Minnesota a 1-0 series edge.
Collier finished with 21 points and eight rebounds on 10-16 shooting. She was also dominant on the defensive end of the floor, recording six blocks and three steals.
Williams ended the game with a team-high 23 points to go along with five rebounds and five assists.
Minnesota was extremely efficient as a team, shooting 51 percent from the field and 41 percent from three.
Fans, players and pundits alike were amazed by Collier as well as the comeback victory.
After stealing Game 1 on the road, the Lynx will look to take a commanding 2-0 series lead in the next matchup between the two teams on Sunday.
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