In a physical and defensive showdown, the Minnesota Lynx evened their WNBA semifinals series against the Connecticut Sun with a 77-70 victory on Tuesday night. It was a game defined by defensive intensity, better bench production, and balanced scoring as the Lynx adjusted to a quieter night from star player Napheesa Collier. With the series now tied 1-1, here are three key takeaways from Minnesota’s pivotal win.

1. Defense Leads the Way

Both teams came out strong defensively, and the game started with just 22 combined points in the first quarter. However, it was Minnesota that gained the defensive edge, holding Connecticut to 36.4% shooting from the field and just 25% from beyond the arc. This marked a significant improvement for the Lynx, who allowed the Sun to shoot 40.9% from three-point range in their Game 1 loss. The physicality of the game was apparent from the outset, with both teams unafraid to engage in contact and intensity.

Minnesota’s ability to stifle the Sun’s offense proved to be a major factor in the win, and they managed to control Connecticut’s perimeter shooting — something they failed to do in Game 1.

2. Balanced Scoring in the Absence of Napheesa Collier’s Usual Output

Napheesa Collier, who dominated the Lynx’s first-round series with massive scoring performances, was kept in check by the Sun in Game 2. After scoring 38 and 42 points in the first round, and 19 points in Game 1 of this series, Collier was limited to just nine points on 14 shots. She did not attempt a single shot in the second quarter.

Despite the drop in scoring, Collier contributed in other ways, pulling down 12 rebounds, dishing out 5 assists, and blocking 4 shots. Her teammates stepped up in the scoring department, led by Courtney Williams with 17 points, and Alanna Smith, who added 15 points on efficient shooting (6-of-8 from the field, 3-of-4 from three-point range). Kayla McBride chipped in with 11 points, while Bridget Carleton contributed 9. All five Lynx starters hit at least one three-pointer, demonstrating the team’s collective scoring ability.

3. Bench Provides Crucial Support

Minnesota’s bench outscored Connecticut’s 16-4, offering both scoring and valuable energy. Myisha Hines-Allenplayed a key role, contributing 7 points and matching the Sun’s physicality in the paint. At 6-foot-1, Hines-Allen was able to bring toughness to Minnesota’s interior defense, which proved crucial against Connecticut’s strong frontcourt.

Other notable bench contributions came from Cecilia Zandalasini, who hit a key three-pointer and finished with 5 points, and Natisha Hiedeman, who added 4 points and 2 assists. The bench provided an important spark, particularly during moments when the starters needed rest, helping Minnesota maintain their intensity throughout the game.