Following a heart-wrenching Game 5 defeat to the New York Liberty that ended their 2024 season, many hoped the Minnesota Lynx would kick off the 2025 WNBA season with renewed determination to address past shortcomings and seek redemption. With most key players returning and new additions strengthening their championship-caliber roster, they were seen as favorites to compete for the title once again.
Now, halfway through the 2025 season, the Lynx are surpassing expectations with a historic start. Sitting at a 20-4 record at the All-Star break—the best in franchise history—they have dominated both offensively and defensively. Their perfect 12-0 record at home and solid performances on the road underline their strength. Offensively, they rank second in offensive rating and lead the league in field goal percentage, points per game, assists, and assist-to-turnover ratio. Coach Cheryl Reeve highlights their basketball movement and unselfish play as core to their identity.
Defensively, the Lynx excel as the top-ranked team in the league, leading in blocks and ranking fourth in steals. Since 2011, they have consistently held opponents to under 40% shooting. Reeve emphasizes that defense is a cornerstone of their success and essential to winning a championship.
Minnesota’s star power is led by MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier, who is posting career-best stats and leads the league in scoring. She is supported by All-Stars Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, who provide scoring, playmaking, and leadership. Beyond their stars, the Lynx boast a deep and well-balanced lineup, with significant contributions from starters like Alana Smith and Bridget Carlton, as well as bench players including Natisha Hiedeman, Jessica Shepherd, Diamond Miller, and Maria Krundikova.
Their bench maintains high production levels and strong defensive efforts, allowing the team to sustain performance even when starters rest. Reeve credits their cohesion and trust for the bench’s growing impact.
As the Lynx lead the league with this remarkable start, they have created a clear gap at the top by combining star talent, depth, balance, and experience to pursue redemption from their 2024 Finals heartbreak. Coach Reeve expresses her passion for coaching the team and her focus on their goals.
— All statistics as of July 18th courtesy of wnba.com.
Fan Take: The Minnesota Lynx’s outstanding start not only rekindles excitement for their fans but also highlights the rising competitiveness and talent depth within the WNBA. This momentum could propel the league’s visibility and inspire greater interest and investment in women’s professional basketball.
