Photo By: Connecticut Sun
Minneapolis, MN (September 29, 2024) – In a tightly contested battle, the Connecticut Sun pulled off a crucial road win against the Minnesota) in Game 1 of the WNBA Semifinals, edging the Lynx 73-70. With the victory, the Sun not only took the first step in the best-of-five series but also marked their fourth win over Minnesota in 2024.
The standout of the night was Marina Mabrey, who led Connecticut with 20 points, hitting a postseason career-high six three-pointers. She contributed five rebounds, three assists, and one block. Alyssa Thomas delivered a classic all-around performance, just missing out on a triple double. Thomas posted 17 points, 10 rebounds, nine assists, and three steals while playing nearly the entire game, showcasing her grit and leadership on both ends of the floor.
DiJonai Carrington added 13 points, along with a postseason career-high nine rebounds and four assists. DeWanna Bonner, another key contributor, notched her 17th career postseason double-double with 10 points, a team-high 11 rebounds, five assists, and a block. Notably, Bonner made WNBA history, appearing in her 83rd playoff game, moving her into first place all-time in postseason games played.
Statistically, the teams were almost neck-and-neck in field-goal percentage, with Connecticut shooting 41.3% (31-75) and Minnesota 41.5% (27-65). However, the Sun’s accuracy from beyond the arc proved to be the difference maker. Connecticut hit 40.9% (9-22) of their three-point attempts, compared to Minnesota’s 25% (5-20). The Sun held the Lynx to just 8 points in the fourth quarter.
For the Lynx, Napheesa Collier led the way with 19 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block. Bridget Carleton chipped in 17 points, including three of Minnesota’s five three-pointers. Despite their efforts, the Lynx couldn’t overcome Connecticut’s relentless defense in the final moments. Game 2, where Minnesota will look to bounce back will be Tuesday October 1st,2024.
