The Minnesota Lynx held off a late rally from the Washington Mystics to earn a hard-fought 78-76 victory on Tuesday night.
Natasha Howard led Minnesota with 21 points and 15 rebounds, delivering a dominant performance in the paint. Rookie guard Olivia Miles matched Howard with 21 points while adding five assists and four rebounds.
Kayla McBride provided crucial outside shooting for the Lynx, scoring 19 points and connecting on five three-pointers as Minnesota secured the narrow win.
Washington was led by rookie Sonia Citron, who turned in one of the best performances of her young career with 28 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including four three-pointers.
Kiki Iriafen added 13 points and 11 rebounds for the Mystics, while Shakira Austin recorded 11 points and 16 rebounds in a strong effort inside.
Minnesota’s rebounding advantage and late defensive stops proved to be the difference as the Lynx escaped with a two-point road victory.
