The WNBA-leading Lynx are on the hunt for title redemption, fueled by the memory of their 2016 Finals loss to the Los Angeles Sparks. With a dominant regular season, Minnesota is determined to reclaim the championship that slipped away.
In 2017, the Lynx clinched their fourth WNBA title in a thrilling Game 5 against the Sparks. Sylvia Fowles led the way with 17 points and 20 rebounds, earning Finals MVP honors. That victory was payback for the 2016 Finals, where the Sparks edged out the Lynx. Now, with a new season underway, the Lynx are channeling that same hunger.
The 2017 Championship: A Lesson in Redemption
The 2017 WNBA Finals were a rematch of the 2016 series, and the Lynx were ready. Head coach Cheryl Reeve had learned from her mistakes in 2016, particularly in managing substitutions. In Game 5, she sent Sylvia Fowles into the game at the right moment, and Fowles delivered a record-breaking performance.
“That season was like … we came out hungry,” recalls Natasha Howard, a forward on that championship team. “We was hungry because we kind of felt some time away when we lost against, in 2016, against the Sparks.” Howard's memoir, The Vision Through My Lens: My Life in Basketball and Beyond, details that season's drive.
The Lynx's 2017 roster was stacked with talent. Maya Moore added 18 points and 10 rebounds, Lindsay Whalen contributed 17 points and eight assists, and Seimone Augustus chipped in 14 points, six assists, and six rebounds. Their balanced attack overwhelmed the Sparks.
Key Players from the 2017 Championship Run
- Sylvia Fowles: Finals MVP, 17 points, 20 rebounds in Game 5.
- Maya Moore: 18 points, 10 rebounds in Game 5.
- Lindsay Whalen: 17 points, 8 assists in Game 5.
- Seimone Augustus: 14 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds in Game 5.
Current Season: Lynx Leading the WNBA
Fast forward to the present, and the Lynx sit atop the WNBA standings. Led by a mix of veterans and emerging stars, they are once again the team to beat. The hunger from 2017 is evident in their play.
Head coach Cheryl Reeve has emphasized defense and teamwork. The Lynx lead the league in defensive rating and assists per game, showcasing their unselfish play. Star forward Napheesa Collier is having an MVP-caliber season, averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds.
But the regular season is just the beginning. The Lynx know that redemption only comes with a championship. “It’s payback time,” says Reeve, referencing the 2016 loss. “We remember how that felt, and we’re using it as motivation.”
How the 2025 Lynx Compare to the 2017 Championship Team
| Category | 2017 Lynx | 2025 Lynx |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Season Record | 27-7 | 22-6 (as of Aug 2025) |
| Points Per Game | 85.4 | 84.2 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 36.2 | 35.8 |
| Assists Per Game | 20.1 | 22.3 |
| Defensive Rating | 97.3 | 94.5 |
The numbers suggest the 2025 Lynx are just as formidable, if not more so on defense. Their improved ball movement and defensive prowess have them poised for a deep playoff run.
Key Takeaways for the Lynx's Title Hunt
- Redemption motivation: The 2016 Finals loss still fuels the team.
- Star power: Napheesa Collier leads a balanced attack.
- Defensive dominance: The Lynx have the best defensive rating in the league.
- Coaching stability: Cheryl Reeve's experience is invaluable.
As the playoffs approach, the Lynx are focused on one goal: bringing another championship to Minnesota. The path won't be easy, but if history is any indication, this team knows how to answer the call.
FAQ
What is the Minnesota Lynx's current standing in the WNBA?
The Minnesota Lynx are currently first in the WNBA standings with a 22-6 record as of August 2025.
How many WNBA championships have the Lynx won?
The Minnesota Lynx have won four WNBA championships: 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017.
Who is the Lynx's current star player?
Napheesa Collier is the Lynx's current star, averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game and is an MVP candidate.