WNBA Finals 2024: Game 1 Recap & Game 2 Preview
WNBA Finals 2024: Game 1 Recap & Game 2 Preview
Game 1 Recap: Minnesota Lynx Stage Historic Comeback
In a thrilling Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, the Minnesota Lynx overcame an 18-point deficit to defeat the New York Liberty 95-93 in overtime. For much of the game, the Liberty seemed in control, dominating on the boards and getting standout performances from Jonquel Jones, who posted a double-double with 22 points and 15 rebounds. Despite struggling with her shot (going 4-for-20 from the field), Sabrina Ionescu contributed 15 points and 8 assists. However, she could not find her usual rhythm, particularly in key moments down the stretch. Breanna Stewart also added 15 points but missed a critical free throw in the final seconds of regulation, which would have sealed the win for New York. She also had a good look to tie it in overtime but came up short.
The Lynx, however, showed incredible resilience. Napheesa Collier, who has been dominant throughout the playoffs, continued her hot streak with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and the game-winning shot in overtime. Kayla McBride added 24 points, and Courtney Williams had 23, including a clutch four-point play with 5.5 seconds left in regulation, which flipped the momentum entirely.
New York's inability to close the game after leading by 15 points with just over five minutes left allowed the Lynx to stage one of the most remarkable comebacks in WNBA Finals history. Stewart's missed free throw gave the Lynx life, and they capitalized in the extra period with Collier's game-winning jumper, which sealed the win.
Game 2 Preview: Liberty's Urgency and Lynx's Momentum
The Liberty faces a critical challenge with Game 2 set for today, Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 3 PM EST. They cannot afford to go down 0-2, especially with the next two games in Minnesota. Jonquel Jones will need to continue her dominance inside, and Sabrina Ionescu must find her shooting touch after going 4-for-20 in Game 1. Breanna Stewart, who had a chance to win it in regulation, will also be looking for redemption after her missed free throw kept the door open for Minnesota.
Defensively, New York will need to figure out how to slow down Napheesa Collier. The Lynx star has been virtually unstoppable throughout the postseason and is coming off yet another standout performance. The Liberty will also need to clamp down on Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, whose late-game heroics were instrumental in Minnesota's Game 1 win.
For the Lynx, the key to Game 2 will be starting stronger and avoiding the need for another dramatic comeback. Napheesa Collier has been leading the charge all postseason, and her ability to close out games has been unmatched. Expect Minnesota to come out aggressively on defense, aiming to force New York's stars into difficult shots again.
What Each Team Needs to Win Game 2:
Liberty: To even the series, the Liberty must get more efficient offense from their backcourt, especially from Ionescu. They'll also need Breanna Stewart to step up in key moments and avoid the late-game turnovers that plagued them in Game 1. Defensively, controlling Collier and limiting second-chance points will be critical.
Lynx: Minnesota should focus on maintaining defensive intensity and riding the hot hands of Collier, Williams, and McBride. If they can continue to frustrate New York's shooters and keep their momentum, they can take a commanding 2-0 lead.
Game 2 Date & Time:
Today, Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 3 PM EST