Minnesota Lynx Edge New York Liberty 90-85

Game Overview

The Lynx edged the Liberty 90-85 on Saturday, with Kayla McBride scoring 25 points and Olivia Miles delivering 23 after a two‑game absence. McBride’s 14 fourth‑quarter points proved pivotal in the finish, while Miles, returning from a calf injury, provided a spark with her late free throws. For Minnesota, Natasha Howard added 16 points, and Courtney Williams contributed 12. The Lynx (17‑6) rebounded from a 13‑point loss to the Liberty eight days earlier, and Courtney and McBride secured offensive rebounds before Miles finished with two free throws that put the game away.

On the Liberty side, Sabrina Ionescu led with 25 points, while Breanna Stewart chipped in 17. Jonquel Jones posted a double‑double of 15 points and 12 rebounds, and Marine Johannes supplied 14 off the bench. The visitors entered the game on a four‑of‑five losing streak. The fourth quarter turned into a tactical battle. Miles forced a steal with 1:21 left, and after a sequence of offensive rebounds by Courtney and McBride, she knocked home two free throws to push the margin to five. Jones answered for New York, but Miles sealed the win with two more free throws with eight seconds remaining.

Minnesota used a 12‑2 run to end the first quarter to take a 17‑13 lead. Miles’ 11 second‑quarter points helped the Lynx take a 42‑32 halftime lead. Ionescu dominated the third, scoring 19 points as the Liberty outscored Minnesota 30‑19, but a McBride jumper kept the Lynx in front 56‑41. Two consecutive three‑pointers from Johannes flipped the momentum, giving the Liberty a 62‑61 edge heading into the final period.

The win improves Minnesota’s positioning in the standings and provides confidence after the earlier blowout. For the Liberty, the loss worsens their recent slide and sets up a crucial matchup in Toronto on Sunday. These upcoming games will be key for both clubs as they chase postseason positioning.

Key Performances

• Kayla McBride – 25 points (14 in fourth)
• Olivia Miles – 23 points, crucial free throws
• Natasha Howard – 16 points
• Sabrina Ionescu – 25 points
• Breanna Stewart – 17 points
• Jonquel Jones – 15 points, 12 rebounds

The Liberty will play Sunday at Toronto, while the Lynx host Phoenix on Monday night. Both games are part of the WNBA’s tight conference race, where every win matters. Fans can expect intense competition as both clubs look to secure a playoff spot.