In a gritty showdown at Minneapolis, Kayla McBride lit up the court, netting 15 of her season-high 29 points in a crucial fourth quarter to steer the Minnesota Lynx to an 82-66 triumph over the Los Angeles Sparks. It marked the Lynx's third consecutive victory.
Despite the absence of Napheesa Collier, the Lynx (12-1) showcased resilience. Collier, known as the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, was unavailable after exiting early during Minnesota’s previous victory against Las Vegas.
McBride was in top form, hitting 9 of 13 shots, including 5 out of 7 from beyond the arc. Courtney Williams supplemented her night with 18 points, six assists, and four steals. Maria Kliundikova contributed robustly with 12 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
A tense back-and-forth ensued when Sarah Ashlee Barker nailed a 3-pointer to nudge the Sparks ahead at 59-58 with just over seven minutes on the clock. Kliundikova’s immediate response with a layup reignited the Lynx’s push. McBride followed with a 3-pointer and converted a three-point play, bolstered by Williams’ timely jump shot.
The Sparks made a brief charge as Dearica Hamby’s layup reduced the gap, only for Alanna Smith and McBride to quash the hope with successive 3s.
Kelsey Plum led the Sparks' early efforts, scoring 11 of her 15 points in the first half and ending it on a buzzer-beating note. Hamby added 13 points with four steals while Azura Stevens ended with 11 points and nine rebounds.
For Los Angeles (4-10), this defeat highlights a troubling trend against Minnesota, with the Sparks managing just two victories over their last 18 encounters. They’ll aim for redemption against Chicago, while the Lynx prepare to face Washington.
