The decisive moment

This one was decided early. Minnesota grabbed the lead for good midway through the first quarter, with 9:41 still on the clock, and never looked back. From there the Lynx turned a competitive opening into a 34-point demolition, handling Phoenix 111-77 on the road.

By the numbers

• Final: Minnesota 111, Phoenix 77 (34-point margin)
• Courtney Williams (MIN): 30 PTS, 5 REB, 2 AST
• Olivia Miles (MIN): 19 PTS, 4 REB, 9 AST
• Antonia Delaere (MIN): 13 PTS, 2 REB, 6 AST
• Kahleah Copper (PHX): 18 PTS, 2 REB, 1 AST
• 188 combined points

Williams set the tone offensively, while Miles nearly stitched together a triple-double as Minnesota's facilitator. Copper's 18 points were the lone bright spot for a Phoenix side that had no answer.

What it means

For Minnesota, the blowout is a statement of depth — the Lynx pulled it off without Napheesa Collier, who continues to recover from March ankle surgery and is expected back on the court in early June. With Dorka Juhasz and Emma Cechova also sidelined, the supporting cast carried the load convincingly. For Phoenix, a 34-point home loss is a sobering checkpoint and a clear signal that adjustments are needed on both ends.

What to watch next

Minnesota will look to prove this performance is repeatable as the 2026 WNBA Regular Season grinds on, while all eyes turn to whether Collier rejoins the rotation soon. Phoenix, meanwhile, needs a fast response to steady itself after a lopsided night.