What happened: Minnesota holds a 42-35 lead over Washington at halftime. Courtney Williams paces the Lynx with 11 points, while Natasha Howard has added 10 points, four rebounds and three steals. Sonia Citron has chipped in nine points and Cotie McMahon six off the bench.
Why it matters: Minnesota entered the night at 16-3, one of the WNBA's top teams, and a strong second half would keep the league's best squad rolling. Washington, sitting at 8-8, is trying to hang with a contender on the road and keep its recent momentum going. The margin remains within reach for either side heading into the third quarter.
By the numbers: Season records: Minnesota 16-3 (90.3 PPG, 77.9 allowed), Washington 8-8 (81.2 PPG, 84.6 allowed). The teams' most recent meeting on April 25 saw Minnesota win 77-66. Halftime scoring leaders: Williams 11, Howard 10, Citron 9, McMahon 6.
What to watch: Watch whether Washington can close the gap in the third quarter or if Minnesota's depth pulls the game further out of reach.