Lynx News
The Minnesota Lynx have done it again. On Wednesday, the team challenged Indiana for Game 5 at the Target Center, and by the end of the night the Lynx were named WNBA Champions for the third time in just five years.
Despite a slow first quarter (and part of the second) for both teams, the Lynx found their groove and slowly increased their lead to double digits. By midway through the third quarter, Minnesota had a firm grasp of the game and rolled easily to a 69-52 win over the Fever.
Sylvia Fowles received MVP honors for her performance that included 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Seimone Augustus added a series-high 16 points. Minnesota held Indiana to much lower scoring totals than is typical for the high-energy team. The Fever totaled only 12 points over the second and third quarter combined while turning the ball over an unforgivable 17 times.
''[The Lynx] just outplayed us in every single way,'' said first-year Fever coach Stephanie White.''They looked like a team that was on a mission, and they played like it.''
In the 24 hours following their title win, the Lynx enjoyed a private concert with Prince at Paisley Park and also took a personal conference call from President Obama.
The celebration continues today, as well, when the team holds its victory parade in downtown Minneapolis. The parade will start at 11:30 at 12th and Hennepin, and the festivities will end up back at the Target Center.
Timberwolves News
After starting out their preseason with three losses, due largely in part to a terrible defensive effort, the Wolves notched an 89-87 win over the Raptors Wednesday.
Although they trailed at the half, the Timberwolves stepped it up in the third quarter and held Toronto to just 12 points. It was the first glimpse fans got of Minnesota's potential on defense, and it was certainly welcomed. Karl-Anthony Towns played well on both ends of the floor, finishing the evening with 12 points, six rebounds and three blocks. Gorgui Dieng gave another strong preseason performance, leading the team with 14 points on the evening.
Veteran Tayshaun Prince played almost 20 minutes, which I don't imagine will be done much during the regular season, but he played well offensively and added 13 points to the evening. Also looking strong were some of Minnesota's bench players. Tyus Jones scored 12 points, including going 2-of-4 from behind the arc. Nemanja Bjelica tallied eight points and seven rebounds, while second-year guard Zach LaVine contributed nine points and five assists.
The Wolves will have a few days off before facing Memphis on the road Sunday evening. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. CST.
Lindsey's Friday Flick Recommendation
It's been a while since I saw a movie in the theater, but last weekend I went with a friend to see a film based on a true story, which I always enjoy.
The Walk
Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the movie tells the story of Philippe Petit, a tight-rope walker from France that dreamed of illegally stringing a tight rope between the Twin Towers and talking across them. I will warn you about the one thing that got a bit under my skin: the main female actress seems to have a French accent that comes and goes throughout the movie.
If you can get past that, the story is fascinating and very creatively told. I wasn't brave enough to see it in 3D, but I'm sure it's even more captivating in that format. Check out the trailer below, and happy weekending!