Lynx Face Elimination After Heartbreaking Loss to Liberty in Game 3 of WNBA Finals

The Minnesota Lynx are now in a challenging position after narrowly losing Game 3 of the WNBA Finals to the New York Liberty, 80-77, due to a last-second shot by Sabrina Ionescu. Despite leading by as many as 15 points earlier in the game, the Lynx couldn't maintain their momentum and now must win two consecutive games to secure their fifth WNBA championship.

Minnesota came out strong, riding the energy of a home crowd of 19,521 fans—the largest in franchise history—finishing the first quarter with a 10-point lead. However, New York, led by Breanna Stewart, mounted a comeback, with the Lynx struggling to sustain their offensive success. After making 10 of 20 shots in the first quarter, Minnesota only managed 19 out of 55 for the rest of the game.

Coach Cheryl Reeve expressed disappointment after the game, acknowledging the resilience required to navigate the ups and downs of such a tightly contested match. Minnesota guard Courtney Williams noted how the Lynx had the opportunities but couldn’t convert at key moments, while New York capitalized on theirs.

READ ALSO: New York Liberty, Minnesota Lynx set to face off in WNBA Finals

Minnesota now faces the daunting task of winning both remaining games to claim the title. Historically, only four teams have managed to come back from a 2-1 deficit in the WNBA Finals, including the Lynx in 2017, their last championship run. However, losing both Game 2 and Game 3 like Phoenix did in 2007 yet still winning the championship is an even rarer feat.

The Lynx were further hampered by the absence of forward Alanna Smith, who left the game with back issues in the final minutes. Coach Reeve praised Smith's contributions before her exit, noting that Minnesota was plus-20 with her on the court. Her absence, combined with foul trouble, left the Lynx vulnerable in the game's closing moments.

Game 4, scheduled for Friday evening, will now be a must-win for Minnesota if they hope to keep their championship dreams alive.

SportsLigue