Minnesota Lynx sets franchise record after victory over Golden State Valkyries

In the United States, the Minnesota Lynx secured their position as the top seed in the WNBA playoffs by defeating the Golden State Valkyries 72-53 on September 11, 2025. This victory enabled them to achieve a remarkable 34 wins in the regular season, establishing a new franchise record. The Lynx were led by standout performances from Natisha Hiedeman, who scored 21 points, and Napheesa Collier, who contributed 19 points. This win also confirmed that they would enter the playoffs with home-court advantage. The Golden State Valkyries, in contrast, found themselves in a precarious position as they dropped to the No. 8 seed in the playoffs. With the loss, they not only lost their ranking, but they also faced the daunting challenge of having to play the Lynx again in the first round of the playoffs. The stakes were high for the Valkyries; a win was essential to keep their playoff hopes alive, whereas a loss would mean the end of their playoff journey. The statistical performances during the game illuminated a tale of two teams. The Lynx showcased their dominance, particularly in the second and fourth quarters, where they stepped up defensively and offensively. In the first quarter, the Lynx took an early lead with a score of 17-8. The Valkyries struggled to find their rhythm, especially at the 3-point line, missing their initial attempts before finally connecting later in the game. The Lynx capitalized on their rivals' weaknesses, pushing their lead to double digits with a strong finish in the fourth quarter. As the playoffs approach, the performance against the Lynx was pivotal for both teams. Minnesota’s success was underscored by their comprehensive strategy and a roster filled with talent, showcasing their potential to be championship contenders. On the other side, Golden State faced the critical task of regrouping in preparation for an immediate rematch with the Lynx on September 17, 2025, where they aimed to turn the tide of their inaugural playoff run and avoid elimination. This matchup would not only challenge their skills on the court but also serve as a key test of their team dynamics and resilience in high-pressure situations.