Lindsay Whalen, one of Minnesota’s biggest homegrown basketball stars, was present during the Minnesota Lynx’s victorious game against the Connecticut Sun on Tuesday night. The Lynx won with an 88-77 semifinals victory, securing their place in the WNBA Finals. This is their first trip to the finals since 2017 when Whalen played a significant role in securing the franchise’s fourth championship in seven seasons. After their victorious 2017 run, key players including Whalen, Maya Moore, and Rebekkah Brunson retired by 2019.
The same year marked a shift in the Lynx’s history when Cheryl Reeve, utilizing her No.6 WNBA Draft pick, chose Napheesa Collier from UConn. Her performance reminded Reeve of previous stars like Moore and fellow UConn alumni, Breanna Stewart – the latter of whom won her first WNBA MVP title in 2018. Six years later, Collier emerged as the face of Minnesota basketball, and her fondness and respect for Whalen were evident in their embrace at the final buzzer.
Collier expressed her admiration for Whalen, hailing her as a Hall of Famer who has achieved what she herself aspires to. The significance of the legacy passed down to her and the team was not lost on Collier. Their next challenge is to face the New York Liberty, a formidable team assembled to win titles, boasting several former MVPs amongst their ranks and a solid lineup of international stars.
The Liberty’s ambitious aspirations were reminiscent of Reeve’s 2017 team, which had five starters now honored in various Halls of Fame. This year’s Lynx team, on the other hand, was predicted to place ninth in the preseason. Collier, as a two-time Olympic gold medalist, stands out as their star player. Her current trajectory suggests that her name will eventually join others in both fame and legacy.
Reeve, who has an impressive record of 47 postseason games wins, recognizes that victory is reliant not only on talent but also on a trustworthy lead guard who complements surrounding players. Collier is highlighted as such a player – her steady play style positively influences the entire team. Reeve emphasizes the crucial aspect of selflessness in teams that advance to the finals.
Facing the Liberty in the WNBA Finals will not be an easy task, especially after their rigorous five-game stretch against Connecticut. However, the Lynx’s sense of camaraderie and their collective desire not just to win, but also to support their teammates, fuels their drive. Despite the challenging road ahead, both Reeve and her team are resolutely focused on winning, not merely appearing in the finals.
